The DIAGNOdent is a pen-like tool that emits a laser similar to a laser pointer. The laser beam emitted by the pen does not do any damage to the teeth or any of the surrounding tissues. However, it allows us to detect early decay in teeth so small that they are not visible yet. These small areas of dental caries can then be treated to prevent them from progressing into severe health issues that require more costly and complicated procedures.
DIAGNOdent can be used with both primary and adult teeth by measuring the fluorescence from the tooth. Clean, healthy teeth will reflect little to no fluorescence. The pen produces a quantifiable result both numerically and acoustically. Early changes that are below the threshold for a restoration can then be sealed to prevent further progression or monitored at subsequent appointments. Areas of tooth with low readings of decay can then be easily restored with air abrasion or dental laser therapy often without the need for anaesthetic.