I personally use Snoop, which is a very dark blue dye. Most caries detectors are used similarly. You want to clean the tooth, dry it, use a microbrush and apply the dye onto the surface of interest ( I always apply it everywhere). Wait about 10-20 seconds, together with air/water rinse very thoroughly. Then air dry and examine, any area you see a stain use your explorer and test the area. With a low speed and a round bur (#2 or 4) remove the stained area.
Repeat procedure until the color is gone. I would not use RED caries detector, it could stain areas and make it look like a pulpal exposure. If an area stains but there is no click or catch use your best judgement. Ideally, you want to remove any area that is suspicious. However, if you know that your pulp is close you may have to change that and go with your instincts.
Remember, the WREB or NERB do not use caries detector for evaluation. So it's to your advantage to use it. I do not solely rely on caries detector, I cut the prep and I feel with the explorer first. Then I do those steps. I use a mirror and examine every part of the prep and tooth. Right before I submit I do it once more. Also, make sure you remove the stain before submitting the patient. The best way is to use a round bur, however if an area stains but its obviously not caries or demineralization you can use alcohol to remove it then make sure to wet the tooth with ample water so you don't dessicate the tooth.
Best of luck,
DesiDentist
