FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:
Sandra Kirk at (405) 602-0205 or (405) 202-3110 (mobile)

Grand Dental Studio
Michael K. Kirk, D.D.S.
Janice R. Henry, D.D.S.
1057 NW Grand Boulevard
Oklahoma City, OK 73103
(405) 848-3719 – Dr. Michael Kirk
(405) 840-3400 – Dr. Janice Henry
www.dentistokc.com

GRAND DENTAL STUDIO USES LASER TECHNOLOGY TO HELP FIND TOOTH DECAY EARLY

April 18, 2005 - Oklahoma City, OK - The DIAGNOdent dental laser technology is being used by Oklahoma City dentists, Dr. Michael Kirk and Dr. Janice Henry, at Grand Dental Studio for early detection of tooth decay. Since even the smallest spot of decay can threaten the integrity of the entire tooth, finding and filling cavities early is the key to preventing further problems of all kinds. Historically, dentists have used lengthy poking and prodding sessions as part of typical dental exams. However, many people don’t realize that these traditional methods of decay detection are typically only 50-75% successful. Cavities often hide along fissure lines, or inside biting or chewing surfaces and can not be seen by a visual exam or detected by probing techniques. DIAGNOdent is the latest dental laser technology manufactured by KaVo America Corporation and sold only to professional dental practices. Grand Dental Studio investested in DIAGNOdent in 2004.

DIAGNOdent uses laser light at a wavelength of 655 nm to inspect your teeth, comparing reflection wavelength against a known healthy baseline wavelength to uncover decay. Decay is detected with a digital numerical reading as well as an audio signal. Essentially, the dentist or dental hygienist is using laser-technology to make comparisons between healthy areas of a patient’s tooth and unhealthy areas. The laser is directed onto one of the patient’s healthy enamel tooth surfaces to give a benchmark reading. Then, the dentist or dental hygienist continues around the patient’s mouth, directing the laser into all suspect areas. Anytime the laser encounters a surface that reads differently than the healthy baseline value, it stimulates emission of fluorescent light of a different wavelength and informs the dentist or dental hygienist of a variation. This is procedure is completely painless and offers precise results without x-ray exposure.

Using DIAGNOdent technology allows dentists to catch areas of decay sooner than traditional methods and with more precision. Further, it requires no x-rays and is a comfortable procedure for the patient. Not only can it help prevent the spread of decay, but diagnosing decay early means the fillings required are simpler and shallower, preserving more of the tooth. It allows the dentist to use a minimally invasive filling procedure often with no shots which is more comfortable for the patient.

“We believe that early detection of tooth decay is important to achieving optimal dental health and many studies have shown that good dental health is directly related to overall physical well-being”, stated Dr. Michael Kirk.

ABOUT GRAND DENTAL STUDIO

Grand Dental Studio provides general, cosmetic, and implant dentistry care for the entire family. Dr. Michael K. Kirk and Dr. Janice R. Henry and their team members spend hours in training each year to ensure that patients have the highest level of care and comfort. Grand Dental Studio is open Monday through Friday with several appointment times that are outside of normal business hours to meet busy families’ needs.

For a free consultation or for more information contact the office at (405) 848-3719 or visit www.dentistokc.com.

For more information on DIAGNOdent, please refer to the KaVo America web site at www.kavousa.com. While the DIAGNOdent did recently receive the ADA (American Dental Association) Seal of Acceptance, Grand Dental Studio does not seek to represent KaVo America. Specific product questions should be forward to KaVo America directly. This release is intended to discuss the benefits that Grand Dental Studio has seen with their patients with the DIANOdent technology.