Quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF): A tool for early occlusal dental caries detection and supporting decision making in vivo.
Available online 30 August 2012
Abstract
Objectives
This
study reports the development and assessment of a novel method using
quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF), to determine whether QLF
parameters ΔF and ΔQ were appropriate for aiding diagnosis and clinical
decision making of early occlusal mineral loss by comparing QLF analysis
with actual restorative management.
Methods
Following
ethical approval, 46 subjects attending a dental teaching hospital were
enrolled. White light digital (WL) and QLF images/analyses of 46
unrestored posterior teeth with suspected occlusal caries were made
after a clinical decision had already been taken to explore fissures
operatively. WL and QLF imaging/analysis were repeated after initial
cavity preparation. The type of restorative treatment was determined by
the supervising clinician independent of any imaging performed. Actual
restorative management carried out was recorded as fissure
sealant/preventive resin restoration (F/P) or class I occlusal
restoration (Rest.) thus reflecting the extent of intervention (=gold
standard). All QLF images were analysed independently.
Results
The
results showed statistically significant differences between the two
treatment groups ΔF (p= 0.002) (mean 22.60 -F/P and 28.80 Rest.) and ΔQ
(p= 0.012) (mean 230.49 -F/P and 348.30-Rest.).
Conclusions
ΔF and ΔQ values may be useful in aiding clinical diagnosis and
decision making in relation to the management of early mineral loss and
restorative intervention of occlusal caries
Clinical Significance QLF has the potential to be a valuable tool for caries diagnosis in clinical practice
Comments