Early detection of cavities in the grooves of teeth is now possible with new technologies that detect hidden decay beneath the surface of a tooth. While traditional methods of cavity detection by feeling and visually looking for decay are still standard practice, laser assisted cavity detecting devices are increasingly becoming an important part of dental diagnosis. Our office utilizes a laser technology accepted by the American Dental Association for early diagnosis of decay. This allows us to restore the tooth very conservatively with small inexpensive fillings rather than waiting for the decay to become more extensive. An added benefit of this technology is that in many instances the tooth can be restored painlessly without the need for anesthetic!