i Tero 5D scanner and NIRI technology

We are huge advocates of minimally invasive dentistry and have been preaching this philosophy for many years. Early detection, prevention and intervention when needed, will have far better outcomes in the long term. In terms of dentistry, tooth decay is one of our most common diseases to treat. In the days of the past, teeth were heavily drilled with large cavities made so that amalgam ( metal ) fillings could be packed in. This would seem quite archaic now and thankfully, we have vastly superior solutions.

In terms of tooth decay, the earlier we can detect a carious lesion the more effective the treatment and long term outcome. The latest technology in terms of early diagnosis is called NIRI - near infra red imaging using our i Tero 5D intra oral scanner. The scanner uses light at a wavelength of 850Nm which is either scattered by healthy enamel or absorbed by de mineralised tooth or tooth decay. On the scan, this appears as an opaque ( white) lesion hence it is readily visible. Studies have shown that this is 66% more effective than a traditional 2D x ray and there is no harmful radiation involved:

Metzger Z, Colson D G, Bown P, Weihard T, Baresel I, Nolting T. Reflected near-infrared light versus bite-wing radiography for the detection of proximal caries: A multicenter prospective clinical study conducted in private practices. J Dent2021; doi: 10.1016/j.jdent.2021.103861.

In most cases, we can use our amazing Waterlase i Plus dental laser to treat these early lesions without the need for drilling or needles and with ultra minimal preparations. The use of multiple advanced technologies can have a profound effect on treatment and is a real paradigm shift away from dentistry as we used to know it!