Abstract: The present invention is direct to a device and method for diagnosis of enamel cavitation of an interproximal dental surface. And in particular, the invention is directed to a device and method for diagnosing enamel cavitation of an interproximal tooth surface that is not visible or probe-able by instrumentation in human permanent and deciduous teeth. More specifically, the device has a substrate of generally rectangular shape and of a sufficient thickness such that it may be inserted into the interproximal space of teeth. On the substrate is disposed an impressionable material for contacting the interproximal surface and forming an impression thereof. The impressionable material has visco-elastic properties such that an impression of enamel cavitation on the interproximal surface remains on the impressionable material following removal of the substrate from the interproximal surface.

Abstract: A dental bur for use in repair of a carious lesion has a working surface including cutting elements which deflect or abrade upon encountering material having a hardness at or above a preselected hardness, wherein said preselected hardness is below the hardness of normal dentin and is generally below a hardness corresponding to the lower limit of hardness of pre-carious dentin to be retained in painless procedures.

Abstract: A dental bur for use in examining anomalies and in restoration of decayed areas of teeth with a bur head having a generally elongate conical shaped body with a base and an opposed vertex. Cutting members are located about the outer surface of the body between the base and vertex and extend along the outer surface of the bur head which has a length of at least 1.5 millimeters.

Abstract: A dental bur has a working surface including cutting elements which deflect or abrade upon encountering material at or above the preselected hardness corresponding to the lower limit of hardness of non-carious dentin. The dental bur is constructed of metal, ceramic, or plastic.