A new dental tool prototype developed by University of Washington researchers can measure the acidity of plaque on teeth, which is a key indicator of eventual tooth decay. The tool, called O-pH, uses an LED light and an FDA-approved chemical dye to produce a numerical reading of the plaque’s pH. This information can help dentists and patients identify areas of the teeth most at risk of developing cavities.
The O-pH tool is non-invasive and easy to use. The researchers tested the tool on 30 patients between the ages of 10 and 18 and found that it was effective in detecting acidic conditions in the teeth.
This new technology could have a significant impact on the prevention and treatment of cavities. By helping dentists identify areas of the teeth most at risk of decay, the O-pH tool could lead to earlier and more effective treatment. This could help to reduce the number of people who develop cavities and the need for more invasive dental procedures.
