The new CaviSense toothpick helps detect early signs of tooth decay and has proven useful in both traditional dental offices and mobile practices, both as a screening tool for use during non-X-ray visits and as a monitoring tool to evaluate the effectiveness of remineralization treatments.
Founded by Gili Naveh, DMD, MSc, PhD, CaviSense is a dental technology startup born out of the labs of Harvard and Tufts Universities. The CaviSense toothpick is the first product developed by the company led by Dr. Naveh, a practicing orthodontist and scientist.
As a non-X-ray screening tool, CaviSense recommends using four toothpicks per patient (one for each interproximal area).
For young children: Test the interproximal area between the first and second molars.
For older children and adults: The company recommends focusing on the mesial aspect of the most distal molar that has been in the mouth for at least six months.
By incorporating this screening protocol, CaviSense says clinicians are able to identify problem areas in a timely manner, allowing for minimally invasive treatment with a focus on prevention. By catching decay early, dentists can effectively treat and reverse any damage without drilling or fillings.
A positive CaviSense toothpick test typically results in:
Additional oral hygiene instructions
More frequent visits to the dentist
Additional X-rays
Identification of early lesions/application of remineralizing agents
Identification of early cavities that require simple restorations
As a monitoring tool for teeth treated with remineralizing agents (e.g., Curodont (vVardis), silver diamine fluoride, iodine, etc.), CaviSense recommends testing each tooth surface previously treated with a remineralizing agent during a recall visit.
A negative CaviSense toothpick test indicates successful treatment. A positive CaviSense toothpick test indicates a need for reintroduction, the company explains.
In addition to helping produce better oral care outcomes, the company adds that CaviSense can also create better financial outcomes for your practice.
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