CariVu uses patented transillumination technology to identify caries (cavities) and cracks on the surface of your teeth, as well as in the hard-to-see areas between your teeth. Using safe, near infrared light, CariVu allows Dr. Kassan an almost transparent view of your teeth in order to see structural anomalies and carious lesions. The images have a different look than traditional X-rays and provide additional diagnostic information. CariVu does so without the use of radiation, making it ideal for children, pregnant women, and those unwilling or unable to undergo a traditional dental X-ray. It does NOT replace the need of for diagnostic x-rays. It supplements the information taken from an x-ray. Modern x-ray sensors require so little radiation exposure that the protective lead apron placed on you while having an x-ray taken is no longer considered neccessary.