The diagnosis of pit-and-fissure caries has for too long relied on visual and tactile examination. Both systems are deeply flawed, leading to misdiagnosis up to 50% of the time. New diagnostic devices can accurately lead to almost exact measurement of defect depth. Many of these instruments are light-based. Treatment of virgin pit-and-fissure caries does not need destructive treatment with rotary high-speed instruments . All-tissue lasers and air polishing/abrasives can safely excavate caries for extremely conservative treatment without the need for local anesthetics.
Learning Objectives:
Appreciate the value of newer diagnostic devices for increased accuracy of diagnoses of early carious lesions.
Consider replacing turbine methodology with lasers and air abrasives as the preferred methods of treating virgin caries.
Make informed decisions on diagnostic and treatment equipment used in early diagnosis and treatment of early caries.
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