Oral Health Diagnostic Tools

By: Neron Xavier

Introduction

Back in the time of analog X-rays, being able to find the causes of specific conditions was nearly impossible. Without the proper tools, most phenomena and illnesses went unchecked, causing more and more problems. As time has gone by, however, humans have been able to develop technology to better detect diseases and conditions. These new scientific tools/technology were known as diagnostic tools. These diagnostic tools have made it easier to identify conditions and illnesses, resulting in more people being properly treated. Some diagnostics tools are more expensive than others, and some are more invasive than others. In this article, we will be addressing a few types of diagnostic tools that are being used particularly in the field of dentistry.

Saliva-Based Biomarkers

Saliva-Based Biomarkers are a type of non-invasive diagnostic that is usually used to help diagnose someone of a certain condition before the condition gets serious. Saliva is something that is mostly produced from major glands like the sublingual, submandibular, and parotid glands. A smaller percentage of saliva is also produced from the labial, buccal, lingual, and palatal salivary glands. Saliva mainly consists of 99% water and 1% inorganic/organic molecules that range from a pH of 6-7. This 1% of inorganic/organic molecules consists of biomolecules that can be used as biomarkers to help identify diseases. Using Saliva-Based Biomarkers is relatively cheaper than other techniques and is a lot more efficient than using blood to determine the presence of conditions/illnesses.

Advanced Imaging Techniques

Advanced Imaging Techniques are tools commonly used in dentistry to identify and treat diseases. Some common examples of Advanced Imaging Techniques include MRIs, CT scans, X-rays, and ultrasounds. Due to the reliability and technology that these techniques possess, there has been an increase in the popularity of these techniques with both patients and dental professionals. The use of advanced imaging techniques allows for a reduced risk of malpractice among dental professionals (1 in 3 dentists get sued sometime in their career). The downsides to these techniques would be that the cost in both money and time are greater, and the patient is at risk of being exposed to radiation. 

1. Magnetic Resonance Imaging

   MRIs use large magnets and radio waves to create images of internal structures present in the human body. It is a non-invasive technique that is used in dentistry to usually find infections present under the gums or detect inflammation before it gets too serious. This advanced imaging technique is non-invasive, but it is important to check if there is any metal in the patient’s body before use

2. Panoramic Radiograph

   A panoramic radiograph is a type of X-ray that is used to take a 2D image of the whole mouth. This allows for a proper image of the structure of the upper/lower jaw, teeth, and present tissues. These panoramic radiographs are helpful in the prevention of jaw abnormalities, tumors, growths, or cancers. This advanced imaging technique is non-invasive.

3. CT Scans

   CT scans use a series of X-rays that allow a computer to take scans of your body. CT scans allow dental professionals to see bone tumors and fractures that may be present in the jaw or other structures in the mouth. These CT scans can also be used to help guide dentists in preventing any serious mistakes from being made. This advanced imaging technique is non-invasive but does expose you to radiation.