Finding caries early leads to the best possible outcome for your patients, but in some cases you might not be able to identify smaller lesions on an x-ray or by using an explorer. There are now a variety of products available designed to help dentists detect caries at the earliest ...

Finding caries early leads to the best possible outcome for your patients, but in some cases you might not be able to identify smaller lesions on an x-ray or by using an explorer. There are now a variety of products available designed to help dentists detect caries at the earliest stage possible, leading to less invasive treatment and happier patients. What Types of Caries Detection Systems Are Available for My Practice? There are a range of new approaches dentists can invest in for early caries detection. They include dyes designed to visibly mark possibly carious lesions, software applications that automate the review of intraoral x-rays, specialzed technology and equipment designed to use transillumination, laser-scanning, or fluorescence to spot carious lesions, as well as caries susceptibility tests that can help identify which patients are most at risk for future caries. Sable Seek Caries Indicator from Ultradent Products, Inc.The Canary System from Quantum Dental Technologies CariScreen Caries Susceptibility Test from Oral BioTech What Should I Consider When Selecting Caries Detection Systems? When selecting dyes, keep in mind they come in different colors and delivery methods. Think about how the color will be applied to the teeth and how the color will stand out from other tissues. If you opt to invest in equipment, it’s important to find a detection aide that’s easy to use. Train your entire staff on how to properly use the system and develop a plan to educate your patients about the technology.