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Cavities
are detected a number of ways. The most common are clinical
(hands-on) and radiographic (x-ray) examinations. During a
clinical exam, the dentist uses a hand held instrument called
an explorer to probe the tooth surface for cavities. If the
explorer "catches," that means the instrument has
found a weak, acid damaged part of the tooth, a dental cavity.
Dentists can also use a visual examination to detect cavities.
Teeth that are discolored, usually brown or black, can sometimes
indicate a dental cavity. Dental x-rays, especially check-up
or bitewing x-rays, are very useful in finding cavities that
are wedged between teeth, or under the gum-line. These "hidden"
cavities are difficult or impossible to detect visually or
with the explorer. In some cases, none of these methods are
adequate, and a dentist must use a special disclosing solution
to diagnose a suspicious area on a tooth.
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