A clinical study comparing digital radiography and near-infrared transillumination in caries detection.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of detecting proximal carious lesions utilizing a new near-infrared transillumination (NIRTI) system (CariVu, Dexis) to traditional digital bitewing radiography (BWXR). Thirty patients received four posterior BWXRs and all premolars and molars were individually imaged with the NIRTI device. Sixty-seven proximal carious lesions were classified based on their depth into enamel or dentin for both BWXR and NIRTI images. The caries depth classification between the two systems were strongly correlated (rs =0.66; Spearman range: 0.60-0.79=strong) and significant (P<.001) with a median score of 3 for NIRTI and 2 for BWXR. The new NIRTI system (CariVu) may serve as an adjunct to BWXR in the diagnosis of proximal caries. The NIRTI system could serve as an adjunct diagnostic system that could be used in high-caries risk programs where patients are closely monitored with regimented follow-up appointments. NIRTI could also be beneficial with pregnant or pediatric patients, and in situations where radiography may not be available such as remote humanitarian missions.