The system is an amazing new leap forward in diagnostic capabilities whereby dentists can detect and monitor tooth decay as small as 50 microns and have the ability to see around existing filling materials. The Canary system is a non-ionizing (no radiation) pain free, safe and non-invasive early detection system. To date the industry has not had a device that could detect lesions this small. Furthermore traditional radiographs (x-rays) often cannot see decay around existing fillings due to the radiopacity of fillings masking part of the tooth and potentially decay. In addition traditional x-rays cannot perceive tooth decay until a larger portion of tooth had been damaged or demineralized.
The Canary System can find decay earlier so that the decay can potentially be remineralized (reversed) and hopefully not necessitate traditional dental treatment that would require a filling. The ability to quantify and monitor a lesion to see if it is healing is another aspect that is of great benefit to track over time. If modern remineralization therapies are not being used properly by a patient or compliance is lacking, then traditional dental procedures can still be performed to eliminate the decay.
Dr Todd Snyder of Aesthetic Dental Designs can be reached at (949) 643-6733.
