Between Teeth Cavity Detection Device

posted on 07/28/2011

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disposable, single-use tape for detecting cavitites between teeth

A disposable, single-use tape for detecting cavities on the smooth surfaces between teeth

Patients often get cavities that are hidden in between the teeth, but currently dentists can only see them on x-rays but not with their eyes until they get very large and destructive. Also, since these cavities cannot be seen visually, dentists do not currently have a reliable way to decide which ones need to be filled and which ones can be healed without filling. Keeping teeth healthy by finding and appropriately treating cavities in between the teeth means that patients can retain their teeth longer and in better condition throughout life.A study conducted at the UCLA School of Dentistry found that when using traditional film x-rays, cavity presence & depth are misdiagnosed up to 40% of the time, especially when detecting interproximal decay (decay that occurs between teeth rather than on the biting surface or the sides).  Diagnosing interproximal decay is hampered by natural variations in tooth shape & alignment, traditional film limitations, less-than-perfect exposure levels, poor angles, & processing failures.  Currently there is not a method to determine which small lesions seen on x-rays between teeth actually need to be filled.  So most are "watched" & not treated & subsequently re-x-rayed later, usually after the lesion becomes large enough to be clearly detected. Thanks to the researchers at Temple University, they have developed a patented, novel "between teeth" cavity detection device.  It is a rapid, non-invasive, painless, inexpensive, accurate method for diagnosing cavities between the surfaces of suspect teeth.  No other product on the market can do this!It's a disposable, single-use, impressionable tape that is inserted between adjacent tooth contacts. When the tape is pulled against the suspect tooth surfaces, an impression of that surface if formed, including any decayed area.  The impression remains after the tape is removed.This technology will revolutionize dentistry as we know it.  The device will not only improve the diagnosis of cavities & the overall health of dental patients, it will increase treatment volume without the need for additional x-rays or new patients.