Expert ADVICE
Detecting Decay Earlier than Ever
DR. VIRGINIA SHARPE Sharpe Dental Studio 6 Calle Medico, Ste. 2 505.982.4686 SharpeDentalStudio.com
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raditionally, tooth decay has been assessed by dentists identifying soft spots in teeth. But this approach only detects decay when it is already well underway. Using Spectra, an intraoral fluorescent camera, dentists can now objectively measure tooth density, and in many cases detect decay well before it is visible. Spectra is the first ergonomic, noninvasive, handheld digital imaging instrument that aids in the detection of decay. By quickly and reliably identifying decay-causing bacteria in fissures and on occlusal surfaces, Spectra is an effective tool in promoting oral hygiene. How exactly does Spectra work? Lightemitting diodes (LEDs) project highenergy, violet-blue light at a wavelength of 405 nm onto tooth surfaces. Light of this particular wavelength stimulates bacteria to fluoresce red while healthy enamel fluoresces green. The result is a weather map of sorts—anything red needs attention, and colors leading up to red need to be closely monitored.
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SANTA FE & ALBUQUERQUE
The Spectra is the vanguard of this type of technology, though density cameras have been available for about a decade or more. Dr. Sharpe has been using Spectra on her patients for two years, and finds it essential to the efficacy of her dentistry practice. Previously, X-rays were taken (though that too has been replaced by digital imaging) and then the film would be assessed. If a dark spot was detected, the dentist would then touch the spot on the tooth with a sharp metal tool to discern softness, signifying the need for a filling. Now, with the use of Spectra, a filling can be much smaller with less natural tooth structure removed if the decay is detected early enough; Spectra allows for readings of slight changes in density. If decay has just started, a dentist can use a laser without even employing anesthetic to remove the problem area without sacrificing much of the tooth structure. With early and accurate detection methods like Spectra, gone are the days of numbness and crowns.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Dr. Sharpe uses Spectra on every patient she sees, especially the chewing surfaces of teeth or areas around old fillings. At least once a year, another reading is done to monitor for any changes. Painless and unobtrusive, Spectra consists of a wand with a tiny camera hooked on the end. The hygienist simply waves the wand over each tooth while cleaning, and an image is captured showing tooth density. The image then appears on a screen, where the patient can look at it as well. Of course, in terms of avoiding tooth decay, preventative home-care like brushing, flossing, eating health and getting regular dental checkups are paramount to good tooth health. “It’s like anything else with health and your body; if you do preventative measures, you’re always going to end up better down the road,” says Dr. Sharpe. But when the occasional tooth decay does come up, technologies like Spectra allow for earlier and more accurate diagnosis, causing less toothache in the long run.