A Review of Emerging Technologies for the Detection and Diagnosis of Dental Caries
Abstract
Objectives: to address emerging technologies presently available to aid in the detection and diagnosis of dental caries and to compare their efficacy and accuracy to visual, tactile, and radiographic examination. Methods: The technologies reviewed include fiber-optic transillumination (FOTI), digital imaging fiber-optic transillumination (DIFOTI), near-infrared light transillumination (NILT), quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF), laser fluorescence, light emitting diode (LED), alternating current impedance spectroscopy, frequency-domain infrared photo-thermal radiometry and modulated luminescence (PTR/LUM), and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). References were manually searched using PubMed, Google Scholar, and manufacturers websites. Results: The devices vary greatly in their modes of action as well as their sensitivities and specificities compared to visual and radiographic examination for caries detection. There is also variability among the devices in their capacity to quantitatively measure caries progression and limitations of some devices to measure only specific areas of the teeth. Overall, many of these devices when combined with visual examination can detect caries at the earliest stage allowing the option for preventive care rather than restorative treatment. Conclusions: No single device or method alone is sufficient to adequately diagnose carious lesions in all sites. A combination of diagnostic methods and devices greatly increases the ability to detect caries in its earliest stage.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1036930
Entities
People
- Walter Jr B. Volinski
Organizations
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences