 Dr. Joseph Gaudio chooses carefully which and when radiographs are taken. There are many guidelines that we follow. Radiographs allow us to see everything we cannot see with our own eyes. Radiographs enable us to detect cavities in between your teeth, determine bone level, and health of bone. We can also examine the roots and nerves of teeth, diagnose lesions such as cysts or tumors, as well as assess damage when trauma occurs.
Dental radiographs are invaluable aids in diagnosing, treating, and maintaining dental health. Exposure time for dental radiographs is extremely minimal. Dr. Gaudio utilizes Digital Imaging Technologies within the office.
The latest in x-ray technology offers the opportunity to take X-rays at a significantly reduced radiation level. Utilizing a computer sensor in place of standard x-ray film, we are able to develop an x-ray image at anywhere from 60 to 90% less radiation exposure. Additional benefits include the ability to enhance the images and view them on a 20” monitor versus a 1”x2” film image for more precise diagnosis.
The use of fluoride over the last few generations has created a phenomenon of very dense enamel of our teeth. This dense enamel can make early detection of a biting surface cavity more difficult to diagnose. Small cavities that may begin on the biting surface of the tooth need only a deep groove to penetrate to the softer (dentin) layer. Once a cavity has started to destroy this softer layer it can do a great amount of damage before we can visually see it. A new technology available in our office is called Diagnodent. This instrument utilizes a laser which is projected into the grooves on the biting surface of the tooth. The laser is calibrated to detect density or hardness of tooth structure.
If there is soft tooth structure or decay (cavity) the DIAGNOdent alerts us to this damage while still in it’s early stages. This great new diagnostic technology allows us to treat teeth very conservatively, saving both tooth structure as well as avoiding more extensive dental treatment. |