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Dear Heidi,<br />
As a hygienist I do quite a few sealants. I hate to admit it, but I know that<br />
sometimes if I do not “feel” the decay w/ my explorer…that does not mean<br />
it is not there. I think sometimes when there is not a “sticky” area I assume<br />
all is well and do the sealant. However, I know that once in a while I could<br />
be sealing in decay. This completely bugs me! What can I do to check for<br />
decay so that I can get over my guilty feelings?<br />
A.O.<br />
Los Angeles, CA<br />
Dear A.O.,<br />
First and foremost I want you to rest well. The fact that you are doing so<br />
many sealants is a wonderful thing. I LOVE preventive dentistry. The service<br />
you are providing for your patients is fantastic. You are right. However, there<br />
are times we can “seal things in”. Sometimes an explorer or even an x-ray<br />
does not show the beginning of decay that is starting in deep pits and fissures.<br />
Even if you use caries stain, you can miss it at times. I saw something<br />
for the first time at the 2007 ADA meeting. It was KaVo’s new DIAGNOdent<br />
pen. Have you seen it? It is a handheld caries detector. I love it because it is<br />
light to hold, cordless, and easy to use. It accurately diagnosis caries using<br />
laser technology. How great is that? The laser extends your vision into the<br />
areas where caries can develop and grow. It works so well with incipient<br />
decay in pit and fissure areas. And as far as your explorer goes, it is 90%<br />
more accurate in detecting lesions not detectable with an explorer or bitewing.<br />
So, my advice is…get some laser technology and a good night of sleep!<br />
My Best,<br />
Heidi<br />
58 <strong>LVI</strong> VISIONS • JANUARY • FEBRUARY • MARCH • APRIL 2008
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