Detecting cavities (dental decay or caries) has come a long way from relying solely on x-rays. Today, new technology allows dentists to see decay earlier, more accurately, and without exposing patients to radiation. One such breakthrough is the Cari-Vu intra-oral camera.
Call us today at (301) 635-1601 to schedule your appointment and detect cavities early!
Traditional Cavity Detection: Limitations of X-Rays
X-rays have been the standard tool for detecting cavities that are not visible to the naked eye. However, they have some limitations:
- Crowded teeth: X-rays may not provide a clear view in tight spaces.
- Low resolution: Modern x-rays use less radiation (good for safety), but this can reduce clarity.
- Delayed detection: Cavities may go unnoticed until pain or sensitivity occurs.
- Expert interpretation required: Understanding x-rays often requires professional expertise.
Introducing the Cari-Vu Intra-Oral Camera
The Cari-Vu camera offers a revolutionary way to detect cavities:
- Near-perfect accuracy: Detects decay with 99% accuracy compared to 91% for digital x-rays.
- No radiation: Uses near-infrared transillumination to scan teeth safely.
- 3D imaging: Provides a bird’s-eye view of each tooth and reveals the relative density of the tooth structure.
- Quick and easy: A full-mouth scan can be done in just a few minutes.
- Patient-friendly: Patients can watch the live monitor to see dark spots and cracks in real-time.
Key Benefits of Cari-Vu
- Early detection of cavities and cracks, even in hard-to-see areas.
- Identifies deep cracks around silver fillings, which could prevent fractures.
- Reduces the need for invasive procedures such as crowns by allowing early resin filling restorations.
- Empowers patients to take charge of their dental wellness by seeing exactly what’s happening in their mouth.
How Cari-Vu Works
- The camera shines a powerful near-infrared light through the tooth.
- The light passes through the tooth and highlights areas of decay or cracks.
- A 3D image is displayed on a monitor, showing patients exactly what’s happening inside their teeth.
- Dentists can make more accurate and confident treatment decisions.
Seeing Is Believing
The Cari-Vu camera allows patients to see exactly what’s happening in their mouths, removing guesswork from dental care. Early detection means:
- Less invasive treatments
- Fewer crowns and major procedures
- A healthier, longer-lasting smile
We’re excited to introduce this technology to our patients and make dental wellness transparent, accurate, and safe.
Check out the below pictures, the top picture was taken with the CariVu camera and the picture below shows the same cavity once the tooth has been opened up.
At Drewyer Dentistry, we are proud to offer this advanced technology to help our patients maintain healthy, confident smiles.
FAQs About Cari-Vu
Q: Is Cari-Vu safe?
A: Yes! Cari-Vu uses no radiation, making it safe for all patients, including children and pregnant women.
Q: How accurate is it?
A: Cari-Vu detects decay with 99% accuracy, improving on the 91% accuracy of traditional digital x-rays.
Q: Does it replace x-rays?
A: Not completely. X-rays are still useful for viewing bone structure and deep root issues, but Cari-Vu is excellent for spotting early decay and cracks.
Q: How long does a scan take?
A: A full-mouth Cari-Vu scan takes only a few minutes.
Q: Can I see the results myself?
A: Absolutely! Patients can watch a live monitor during the scan to see cavities and cracks as they are detected.
