Tooth decay detector to end all dental woes

The device gives access to accurate data, not visible to human eye, enabling in-time preventive treatments and care plans by dentists.

Developed by scientists from Scotland, it can also detect the most hidden lesions in the dentine layer.

The device costs around £2,000, each of its disposable head costing an additional £3,000.

The need for filling can now easily be replaced by a fluoride varnish as the decay is detected much earlier, claimed Wembley-based dentist Dr Martin Delahaye.

Working of the device
Clipping into the mouth, CarieScan produces an electric current besides the infected tooth.

It has a "traffic light" color pyramid which indicates the level of tooth decay, revealing an accurate status of the tooth spoilage as well as the presence and severity of the detected decay.

Users can also simply use the calibrated digital display of decay measurement offered by CarieScan.

PRO needs a consistent operating environment for best functioning, which requires the tooth to be isolated by cotton balls and dried for exact five seconds with the help of a 3 in 1 syringe.

Not adhering to the dry rule of the device can lead to non repeatable data.

Decay status and user actions are communicated by the device in plain English messages, key presses also being audibly confirmed.

Better than its competitors
CarieScan PRO is the most accurate diagnostic device, with 92.5 percent accuracy at detecting tooth decay.

The device provides an enhanced monitoring frequency and more safety due to the absence of X-rays, as compared to other devices available in the market.

"X-rays can be used but they mean radiation for the patient and often the results are not particularly informative.

"This sensor gives me quantitative and qualitative results," Dr Delahaye said.

Unlike its competitors, it gives results based on the state of disease instead of the optical properties of the tooth and is unaffected by tooth discoloration or staining.

CarieScan Pro also gives the minimum false or presumed results, revealed scientists.

The accuracy of early detection rates offered by CarieScan PRO makes it really cost effective, safer and better for patients as compared to all other available devices.

Developers are of view that CarieScan can bring a revolution in the medical world and make the visit to the dentist a pleasant experience.

The British Dental Association’’s scientific advisor Professor Damien Walmsley said, “The CarieScan PRO is an interesting innovation, and it’s great too, that the concept and design comes from a UK company.

“We look forward to seeing the results of future clinical trials to establish its benefits.”