Acid probe spots dental danger

A PROBe that measures acidity in the mouth may protect the teeth against decay.

the device, from the University of Washington in the U.S., shines an leD light on the teeth after they’ve been coated with a special dye.

it then measures how the light is reflected by dental plaque — high levels of corrosive acid in plaque can affect how light bounces back.

Patients can then be told to concentrate on brushing high-risk areas to reduce the risk of cavities.

it is hoped the information will also encourage patients to cut down on sugar, a key ingredient in acid formation.