✓ Cavity ✓Tooth Decay ✓Tooth Cracks ✓Toothache
Hello, this is Yonsei JW Dental Clinic located in Gangnam, Seoul, Korea. While many patients visit our clinic for cavity check-ups, it’s also essential to screen for any necessary treatments before starting orthodontic procedures.
Cavities may be present even when they’re not easily visible to the naked eye. Similarly, tooth cracks can be difficult to detect without advanced tools. If early-stage cavities or cracks are left untreated, they can progress significantly—possibly leading to severe decay or even the need for extraction.
That’s why early and accurate diagnosis plays a key preventive role in protecting dental health.
What is the Qraypen C and How Is It Used?
At Yonsei JW Dental Clinic, we use the Qraypen C to detect early dental caries (cavities) and cracks.
Qraypen C emits visible blue light at 405nm, and with a special filter that blocks wavelengths below 500nm, it enhances the visibility of red fluorescence. This red glow comes from porphyrins—metabolites produced by bacteria within dental biofilms. By analyzing these red signals, we can assess the presence and maturity of harmful bacteria.
Because Qraypen C functions like an intraoral camera, it captures both a standard image and a Qray image simultaneously—making the process quick and comfortable while the patient remains in the dental chair.
Areas where mineral loss has occurred (e.g., early cavities) will appear darker, while biofilm areas show red fluorescence, allowing us to identify:
- Plaque
- Tartar
- Early-stage cavities
- Fine cracks in the enamel
Why Early Detection Matters
Some patients visit the clinic because they feel a sharp pain while chewing, even though their teeth seem fine in everyday life.
Cracks, in particular, often aren’t visible without special equipment, making them hard to detect early. Likewise, many people don’t seek treatment for cavities until they hurt—but by then, the decay has often progressed.
In children and adolescents, cavities progress much faster than in adults due to higher cavity activity levels. Early detection and prompt treatment are especially critical.
However, diagnosing children can be challenging because:
- It’s hard to gain their cooperation
- Their small oral cavities make digital X-rays difficult
- Many parents are concerned about radiation exposure
A Safe, Radiation-Free Solution
That’s where Qraypen C becomes especially valuable.
It uses harmless visible light and has been approved as a new medical technology by Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare. There's no radiation exposure, so it can be used safely for both children and adults.
Since June 1, 2021, Korean children aged 5 to 12 can receive Qray-based oral exams twice a year with National Health Insurance coverage—meaning only 30% of the exam fee needs to be paid out-of-pocket.
An Effective Educational Tool for Oral Hygiene
Qraypen C is not just for diagnosis—it’s also effective for oral hygiene education.
It provides visual proof of where plaque or tartar has accumulated by highlighting those areas in red. This is particularly helpful for:
- Orthodontic patients, who often have plaque around their brackets
- Children, who are more responsive to visual feedback
During Qray imaging, both children and parents can view high-resolution color and fluorescence images of the child’s teeth together on a monitor.
This helps children:
- Understand their oral health visually
- Become more motivated to maintain proper hygiene
- Take ownership of their dental care
Prevention Starts With Early Detection
Catching cavities and cracks early is the key to preventing further damage.
The Qraypen C plays a critical role in early diagnosis and treatment, making it a valuable foundation for preserving natural teeth over the long term.
By visualizing problems directly with the Qraypen, patients are more likely to seek timely treatment, improving the chances of saving their teeth.
A Clinic Without Unnecessary Treatments
At Yonsei JW Dental Clinic, we provide only the care you truly need—without over-treatment.
We treat every patient with the same care and dedication as we would our own family, always striving for the best possible outcome.
Our guiding principle in every treatment we offer is simple:
Preserve your natural teeth whenever possible.
