Efficiency of the transillumination method in the diagnosis of caries of permanent teeth in children

Abstract

The aim of the study was to increase the effectiveness of early diagnosis of dental caries in children. An epidemiological survey of 678 children (351 of them girls and 327 boys) aged 6-12 years was conducted in the cities of Novorossiysk, Krasnodar Territory (582 people) and Moscow (96 people). By the method of randomization, 450 people were selected, who were divided into three age groups: I gr. - 6-7 years; II gr. - 8-9 years old; III gr. - 10-12 years. In each age group, the children were conditionally divided into three subgroups (50 people each) depending on the rate of caries intensity (DMFT=0, DMFT=1-2, DMFT≥3). In children with different indexes of the DMFT, the informativeness of identifying foci of demineralization of the enamel of erupted incisors, molars, canines and premolars was assessed by visual inspection, vital staining and using an apparatus based on the transillumination method. As a result of an epidemiological survey of children in Moscow, caries prevalence levels were low at 6-7 years old and average at 8-9 and 10-12 years, and in Novorossiysk children: low - at 6-7 years and high - at 8- 9 and 10-12 years. Children of 6-12 years old in Moscow have an average level of intensity of caries, and children of Novorossiysk have an average level of 6-7 and 10-12 years, a high level of 8-9 years. During clinical examination of 450 children from 6 to 12 years old, 6.840 permanent teeth were examined. A comparative analysis of the detection of foci of enamel demineralization visually and using the apparatus showed that the apparatus method revealed significantly more teeth with foci of enamel demineralization. This device can be recommended for use in wide clinical practice, given its efficiency and low cost in comparison with other known devices.