Emerging Technologies for Dentin Caries Detection—A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed at assessing the diagnostic accuracy of emerging technologies, such as laser fluorescence (LF), transillumination, light-emitting diode devices, optical coherence tomography (OCT), alternating current impedance spectroscopy, fluorescence cameras (FC), photo-thermal radiometry, and modulated luminescence technology. In vivo and in vitro results of such non-ionizing, non-invasive, and non-destructive methods’ effectiveness in non-cavitated dentin caries detection are sometimes ambiguous. Following the PRISMA guidelines, 34 relevant research articles published between 2011‒2021 were selected. The risk of bias was assessed with a tool tailored for caries diagnostic studies, and subsequent quantitative uni- and bi-variate meta-analysis was carried out in separate sub-groups according to the investigated surface (occlusal/proximal) and study setting (in vivo/in vitro). In spite of the high heterogeneity across the review groups, in vitro studies on LF and FC proved a good diagnostic ability for the occlusal surface, with area under the curve (AUC) of 0.803 (11 studies) and 0.845 (five studies), respectively. OCT studies reported an outstanding performance with an overall AUC = 0.945 (four studies). Promising technologies, such as OCT or FC VistaProof, still need well-designed and well-powered studies to accrue experimental and clinical data for conclusive medical evidence, especially for the proximal surface. Registration: INPLASY202210097.

Enhanced Clinical Decision-Making and Delivery of Minimally Invasive Care Using the ICCMS4D Integrated with Hands-Free Fluorescence-Based Loupes and a Chemomechanical Caries Removal Agent

“…In recent years, several systematic reviews and meta-analyses have been conducted on the efficacy of such devices. 20,21 While studies showed controversial results with their effectiveness as stand-alone devices, the combined approach of ICDAS and fluorescence seems to enhance the benefits from both systems.…”

Revolutionizing Dental Caries Diagnosis through Artificial Intelligence

“…In recent years, advanced imaging techniques have emerged that aim to overcome the limitations of traditional methods. These include optical coherence tomography (OCT), laser fluorescence devices (DIAGNOdent), and near-infrared light transillumination [12]. For example, OCT can provide detailed, cross-sectional images of dental tissues, allowing for the early detection of caries.…”

Absorption Spectroscopy in Dental Tissue Analysis

“…Further studies [33] are devoted to the use of spectroscopic methods and early diagnostics for avoiding more invasive treatment and they point to the necessity of a full-scale imaging system to identify caries lesions that are not detected by traditional visual examination. Spectroscopic techniques [34], [35] belong to emerging technologies for dentin caries detection and surface analysis of dental materials. Present limitations are in the necessity to work with properly prepared samples without water that strongly absorbs radiation [36].…”