Optical fiber also serves to fight cavities

When talking about fiber optic, the image that usually comes to mind is that of a bunch of transparent filaments that, embedded in a cable, have made possible the arrival of broadband internet to homes.That fiber optic cable is underwater, thousands of kilometers long and makes global communications a reality as we enjoy it today. Related

But fiber optic has many more applications beyond transoceanic communications, ranging from something as simple as decorating a Christmas tree to the manufacture of temperature or pressure sensors, or the production of all types of lighting devices.Fiberoptic can be of great help in the dentist's office for the early detection of caries, one of the most widespread pathologies in the population.

Like so many times in the field of health, prevention is key to treating any medical condition, and tooth decay is a good example."Caries is one of the most common infectious diseases and prevention is the best protection.caries are detected in time can be treated without pain, preserving healthy dental tissue, "confirms Dr.Carlos Pascual, specialist in Oral Medicine by the UCM and collaborator of Commitment and Dental Safety, association that promotes the improvement of standards and defends the patient rights in dental clinics.

More than 90% of caries are not visible

The tooth is demineralized from the inside on many occasions, and more than 90% of caries are not visible until they reach an advanced state, which makes treatment difficult.Until now the early detection of caries, which in They are actually a destruction of the tissue that forms the teeth produced by the bacteria that are deposited in the mouth, it has been based on the use of X-rays, a very proven technique and with many applications that dates back to the end of the 19th century, but whose use should be limited because it is harmful to health if it is abused.

Optical fiber also serves to fight cavities

But now, tooth decay, a problem that affects no less than 95% of Spaniards over 35 years of age, according to data from the General Council of Dentists, can be detected quickly and safely thanks to fiber optic and a system called Diagnocam.The use of fiber optics allows dentists to treat pregnant patients or anyone with restricted radiation use, recalls Carlos Pascual.

This equipment is based on the Difoti technology, digital fiber optic transillumination, which allows detailed analysis of the tooth and supports the diagnosis of lesions on occlusal surfaces (the rough parts of the teeth with which we chew) and proximal (those that are in contact with other teeth), as well as fissures.

Behind the black dots

The system uses the tooth as a light conductor, and a video camera captures that light and transmits it to a screen where, if there are cavities, they appear in the form of black dots.Using transillumination, the enamel It appears reflected with a crystal appearance.Diagnocam works with two light sources that pass the tooth from the sides.Unlike a healthy dental structure, tooth decay absorbs more light and remains dark, allowing the dentist to determine the location and extent of it without the need for X-rays.

Optical fiber also serves to fight cavities

In general, the technology for dental treatment is usually expensive.Mounting a dental clinic with the latest equipment can involve an investment of several hundred thousand euros.The Diagnocam camera is priced at about 5,000 euros.For Carlos Pascual, It is a "considerable" initial investment, but it also ensures that its amortization comes in a "not very long" period of time, as it can be used in all patients who attend the consultation, either for a first visit or for a review.

Today Pascual does not believe that there are many dentists and dental clinics that are applying this technique, although this convinced that in the long run he will have many followers.It is another step in the digital transformation that is also addressing this sector.

Images: iStock.com/Kynny/Compromiso and Dental Safety/iStock.com/anatoliy_gleb

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