Detection of Approximal Caries with a New Laser Fluorescence Device

Abstract

The laser device DIAGNOdent developed for the detection of occlusal caries has limited value on approximal surfaces. The aim of this study was to develop and to test a new laser fluorescence (LF) device for the detection of approximal caries. Light with a wavelength of 655 nm was transported to the approximal surface using two different sapphire fibre tips. Seventy-five teeth were selected from a pool of extracted permanent human molars, frozen at –20°C until use. Before being measured, they were defrosted, cleaned and calculus was removed with a scaler. The molars were set in blocks simulating the contact area of adults. Bitewing radiographs were obtained using Kodak Insight films. After two independent assessments with the new LF device, the teeth were histologically prepared, and assessed for caries extension. Using the laser, specificity values for D₁threshold (outer half of enamel), D₂threshold (inner half of enamel), D₃threshold (dentine) ranged between 0.81 and 0.93, sensitivity between 0.84 and 0.92 with no difference between the two tips. Bitewing radiography showed an inferior performance compared to LF (p < 0.05). Intraex aminer reproducibility was high (kappa >0.74). The new LF system might be a useful additional tool in detecting approximal caries. Because of its good reproducibility, it could be used to monitor caries regression or progression on approximal surfaces.

Light-emitting diode and laser fluorescence–based devices in detecting occlusal caries

“…In the LFpen device, the excitation and emission of fluorescence follow the same solid fiber tip, but in opposite directions. 17 This is the main difference to the first one, which has different fibers for light excitation and emission. 1,3 The test sites were measured using both LF devices (LF and LFpen).…”

Clinical performance of fluorescence-based methods for detection of occlusal caries lesions in primary teeth

“…Higher values indicate more severe caries lesions. 3,8,25,26 On the other hand, QLF is an intraoral camera that uses a high-intensity halogen lamp that emits a blue light (λ = 405 nm) for excitation of the tooth. Then, the camera captures the fluorescence coming from the tooth (green fluorescence) and from bacterial metabolites (red fluorescence).…”

Minimal intervention dentistry: part 4. Detection and diagnosis of initial caries lesions

“…[18][19][20][21] Its specificity is acceptable but its reproducibility remains controversial. [22][23][24] Using the DIAGNOdent pen® is easier than its predecessor because the hand piece is no longer connected to a monitor by an optical cord. On the other hand, its use requires some precautions: the tips must be aligned correctly on the test surfaces, thorough cleaning and drying without dehydration and careful scanning of the entire surface with the repeating beep pulses indicating good signal reception.…”