Quantitative Light-induced Fluorescence Research Articles

Detection of pit and fissure sealant microleakage using quantitative light-induced fluorescence technology: an in vitro study.

This in vitro study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) technology for detecting the presence and severity of microleakage of pit and fissure sealants. The areas of interest (AOIs) were 160 pits and fissures of 40 extracted permanent teeth. Fluorescent images were acquired using a QLF device, and the maximum fluorescence loss ΔFmax of each AOI was analyzed. After staining and cross-sectioning of the teeth, histological dye penetration was scored on a scale of 0 to 3. The relationship between ΔFmax and microleakage depth was analyzed, and the areas under the curve (AUCs) were calculated. The │ΔFmax│ increased as microleakage depth increased. The ΔFmax values of microleakage areas showed a strong significant correlation with the histological scores of dye penetration (r = -0.72, P = 0.001). AUC analysis showed a high diagnostic accuracy for microleakage depth (AUC = 0.83-0.91). The highest AUC of 0.91 was found when differentiating the outer half microleakage of the sealant (histological score 0 vs. 1-3). QLF technology is effective in assessing the presence and severity of microleakage, suggesting its potential for noninvasive detection and monitoring of sealant microleakage in clinical settings.

Evaluation of residual dentin thickness using quantitative light-induced fluorescence technology.

This study aimed to determine whether a correlation exists between residual dentin thickness and quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) values and, if so, to analyze its tendencies. Forty extracted sound human molars were assigned to filled and unfilled groups. The teeth were submerged in a mold with clear acrylic resin. Red utility wax was inserted into the pulp chamber space in the filled group to simulate vital pulp. The specimen was sectioned longitudinally to observe the inside of the pulp space. The samples were cut horizontally from the highest point of the pulp space 2mm apart. QLF images were then taken of 2mm, 1mm, and 0.5mm samples using the QLF-D Biluminator™ 2 + system. Three operators independently evaluated the QLF images, and the statistical analysis was conducted using one-way analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficients, and intraclass correlation coefficients. In the filled group, the mean ΔF values for residual dentin thicknesses of 2mm, 1mm, and 0.5mm were - 3.22, - 7.84, and - 11.52, respectively. In the unfilled group, the mean ΔF values were 0, - 6.90, and - 10.14, respectively. A positive correlation was found between residual dentin thickness and ΔF values (P < 0.05). The intraclass correlation coefficients for observations made by the three operators for the filled and unfilled groups were 0.831 and 0.917, respectively (P < 0.05). In conclusion, residual dentin thickness and ΔF values were significantly correlated and had a highly positive correlation regardless of the QLF device operator.

Evaluation of the Remineralization Capacity of Water-based Silver Fluoride

Silver diamine fluoride, which can arrest dental caries, is alkaline and may cause mild soft tissue irritation. Water-based silver fluoride has a neutral pH, which is closer to the physiological range, and is biocompatible for use in the oral environment. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of water-based silver fluoride on remineralizing early enamel lesions by comparing it with other fluoride agents through microhardness and quantitative light-induced fluorescence measurements. An in vitro study with intact bovine incisors was performed. Artificial enamel lesions were induced and subjected to microhardness and quantitative light-induced fluorescence testing. Specimens were randomly divided into 4 groups for treatment. The specimens in group I were treated with water-based silver fluoride and potassium iodide, group II with silver diamine fluoride and potassium iodide, group III with sodium fluoride varnish, and group IV with distilled water. After 8 days of pH cycling, the specimens were subjected to microhardness and quantitative light-induced fluorescence testing. Water-based silver fluoride and silver diamine fluoride showed the greatest increases in microhardness and quantitative light-induced fluorescence, with no significant differences between the two. Sodium fluoride varnish also exhibited a significant increase in microhardness and quantitative light-induced fluorescence, but the differences were smaller than those for water-based silver fluoride and silver diamine fluoride. Water-based silver fluoride is considered useful in a clinical setting for remineralizing enamel lesions, with the advantages of no risk of tissue burn and improved taste and smell.

Quantitative Light-Induced Fluorescence (QLF) in Assessing the Efficacy of Dental Floss as An Adjunct to Toothbrushing

Objectives: The objective of this was to determine the of adjunctive usage of interdental mechanical aids along with educational, preventive and motivational actions on plaque reduction using Quantitative Light- induced Fluorescence (QLF-D) in motivated and non- motivated individuals. Materials and Method: 25 dental students were selected for this study, clinical indices, and QLF-D scores were recorded for all, after which they were divided into two groups. All the participants were given standardized toothbrushes and toothpaste. One group was asked to follow the regular oral hygiene methods while the other group was asked to use toothbrushes and floss along with instructions to use them for three weeks. After said period, the participants reported to the clinic and clinical indices and QLF-D scores were recorded again. The data was collected and subjected to statistical analysis. Results: The statistically significant intragroup difference was noted in groups. When comparing the plaque reduction three weeks post-intervention, the Simple Plaque Score (SPS) score showed a significant difference, whereas, the red fluorescence did not show any significant difference. Conclusion: According to the results obtained, we can conclude that patient education using QLF-D was effective as interdental plaque can be visualized by the patients and effectively cleaned using interdental aids like floss, which is difficult with clinical indices alone. So QLF- D can be an effective educational and motivational tool.

Tooth caries classification with quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) images using convolutional neural network for permanent teeth in vivo

BackgroundOwing to the remarkable advancements of artificial intelligence (AI) applications, AI-based detection of dental caries is continuously improving. We evaluated the efficacy of the detection of dental caries with quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) images using a convolutional neural network (CNN) model.MethodsOverall, 2814 QLF intraoral images were obtained from 606 participants at a dental clinic using Qraypen C® (QC, AIOBIO, Seoul, Republic of Korea) from October 2020 to October 2022. These images included all the types of permanent teeth of which surfaces were smooth or occlusal. Dataset were randomly assigned to the training (56.0%), validation (14.0%), and test (30.0%) subsets of the dataset for caries classification. Moreover, masked images for teeth area were manually prepared to evaluate the segmentation efficacy. To compare diagnostic performance for caries classification according to the types of teeth, the dataset was further classified into the premolar (1,143 images) and molar (1,441 images) groups. As the CNN model, Xception was applied.ResultsUsing the original QLF images, the performance of the classification algorithm was relatively good showing 83.2% of accuracy, 85.6% of precision, and 86.9% of sensitivity. After applying the segmentation process for the tooth area, all the performance indics including 85.6% of accuracy, 88.9% of precision, and 86.9% of sensitivity were improved. However, the performance indices of each type of teeth (both premolar and molar) were similar to those for all teeth.ConclusionThe application of AI to QLF images for caries classification demonstrated a good performance regardless of teeth type among posterior teeth. Additionally, tooth area segmentation through background elimination from QLF images exhibited a better performance.

Detection of Erosive Changes on Smooth Surfaces with and without Orthodontic Brackets Using an Intraoral Scanner-An In Vitro Study.

Consumption of acidic beverages favours development of erosions. Modern diagnostic methods are required to detect erosions at an early stage. This study aimed to evaluate the suitability of an intraoral scanner (IOS) for detection of erosive changes on smooth surfaces adjacent to orthodontic brackets. Orthodontic metal brackets were attached to the buccal surfaces of 58 extracted permanent human teeth. Teeth were randomly divided into groups: A = 6% citric acid, B = Coca-Cola, C = Redbull, D = Powerade, E = Control, no acid exposure. Teeth were exposed to acid in three erosion cycles, followed by rinsing and brushing. Scans of teeth were performed at baseline and after each erosion cycle and enamel loss was measured. Quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) measurements were performed as reference standard. Significant substance loss was measured in all acid groups after the second and third erosion cycle (p < 0.0001). Correlation between scans and QLF were significant (p = 0.001). With IOS, it was possible to detect and quantify enamel erosion at smooth surfaces with and without orthodontic brackets after a short exposure time. Considering the limitations of in vitro results, the use of IOS can be a promising digital tool to detect and monitor erosive enamel changes during fixed orthodontic treatment.

Contemporary Diagnostic Approach of Natal Teeth in Identical Twins Utilizing Advanced Imaging Techniques: QLF and CBCT Imaging

Eruption of teeth at birth or immediately after is a rare phenomenon. The presence of teeth at birth is called natal teeth. However, the etiology of natal teeth is not deterministic. The natal teeth can lead to various medical associated problems and is also associated with various folklores and misconceptions. The diagnosis of natal teeth with its medical management along with counseling of the parents and family members is very important. The present case report provides an insight to the management of natal teeth in identical twins with a brief review of literature. Quantitative light-induced fluorescence imaging and cone beam computed tomography analysis of the teeth have also been done and compared with that of the primary dentition indicating hypo-mineralized tooth structure with decrease in radiodensity of the natal teeth. The present paper is a value addition in alternative diagnostic methods as an adjunct in the diagnosis of natal teeth and differentiating between the natal teeth and primary teeth.

Effect of Fluoride Release on Enamel Demineralization Adjacent to Orthodontic Brackets.

This study aimed to evaluate the ability of fluoride-releasing adhesives to inhibit enamel demineralization surrounding orthodontic brackets. Two groups of 40 sound human premolars were sectioned mesio-distally. The halves were varnished, and orthodontic brackets were bonded with different adhesive materials. An area 1 mm wide surrounding the brackets was left exposed. Each specimen was immersed daily in a pH cycle for 28 days. In the second group, the specimens were exposed daily to a fluoride solution (250 ppm F-) at 37°C. The fluoride release from different groups was measured. Quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) was used to quantify fluorescence loss of enamel surfaces adjacent to the brackets. Results were statistically analyzed using ANOVA at (p<0.05). Fluoride released from the three fluoride-releasing adhesives was significantly higher (p<0.001) in the group with daily fluoride exposures than in the group without fluoride exposures. Enamel adjacent to brackets bonded with Fuji Ortho LC, Ketac Cem, and Dyract Cem showed significantly less (p<0.001) changes in (ΔQ) value (less demineralization) than enamel bonded with Transbond, the control adhesive material. Using fluoride-releasing adhesives significantly reduced the level of demineralization adjacent to orthodontic brackets.

Optical methods for caries detection and determination of caries removal end points.

The modern standard in dentistry requires minimally invasive treatment, as it allows preserving the teeth vitality. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the possibility of laser spectroscopy and quantitative light-induced fluorescence to determine the caries removal end point. Materials and methods: the study was conducted on ten third molars extracted for medical reasons. Measurements were carried out at different stages of preparation of the carious cavity using laser spectroscopy (DIAGNOdent-pen) and quantitative light-induced fluorescence (Qraypen). Results: both methods were effective in differentiating affected and infected dentin. The following indicators of carious tissues were obtained. DIAGNOdent-pen: carious enamel — 28.8±8; soft dentin — 68.3±14; firm dentin (pigmented and non-pigmented) — 23.7±8 and 9.2±3 respectively; healthy dentin (hard) — 4.7±3. For Qraypen: carious enamel — ΔF=25.7±9, ΔR=26; soft dentin — ΔF=26.6±9 ΔR=28.75; firm dentin — ΔF=18.4±9, ΔR=0—10 (no difference between pigmented and non-pigmented was observed); healthy dentin (hard) — ΔF=13.7±8, ΔR=0. Conclusion: methods of laser spectroscopy and quantitative light-induced fluorescence can be used for diagnostics and to assess the quality of preparation of carious cavities, effectively detect fissure caries and selectively remove infected dentin.

Current Approaches to Diagnosis of Early Proximal Carious Lesion: A Literature Review.

Integrating technological tools with clinical visual examination for caries detection and diagnosis can improve preventative measures in dentistry, resulting in decreased treatment expenses and reduced time and costs associated with testing potential anticaries agents. This article provides an overview of the conventional and new emerging modern technologies that can assist dental professionals in the early detection and diagnosis of dental caries. These technologies aid in assessing the progression of carious lesions and monitoring them quantitatively or qualitatively over time.Traditional techniques (visual, tactile, and radiographic) have limitations in diagnosing early proximal caries accurately.Novel methods like fluorescence and transillumination, as well as advanced tools like OCT (optical coherence tomography), laser fluorescence, and QLF (quantitative light-induced fluorescence), are effective for early caries detection. Optical methods like fluorescence and transillumination are particularly successful in identifying initial caries stages. Moreover, this reviewhighlights the clinical relevance of these methods and discusses potential future technologies like terahertz imaging and artificial intelligence (AI)-based approaches.

Quantitative light-induced fluorescence enables effective detection of orthodontic adhesive residues in diverse environments

BackgroundAdhesive remnants post-orthodontic treatment might have deleterious effects on oral health, including enamel demineralization, plaque accumulation, and elevated risk of caries development. The aim of this study was to identify and characterize adhesive residues in an ex vivo environment rich in salivary microbiota using quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) technology. MethodsDisc-shaped adhesive samples with thickness ranging from 800 to 100 µm were prepared using GC Ortho, GOTO, T Orthobond, and Transbond XT and subsequently evaluated utilizing a QLF system. Bovine teeth containing GC Ortho and GOTO adhesives and isolated human premolar teeth bonded with brackets were subjected to a 10-day incubation in an artificial saliva environment. Daily imaging was conducted using QLF during incubation. Data with ΔR > 30% and simple hygiene score (SHS) were obtained with a software for further analysis. ResultsFluorescence intensity exhibited significant differences among the four orthodontic adhesives (p < 0.05). Results of incubation in artificial saliva revealed that red fluorescence surrounding the adhesive on the tooth surface was distinctly observable from day five onwards, with ΔR > 30% and SHS levels higher than those of the control group without adhesive (p < 0.05). Observation of fluorescence images of isolated human premolar teeth with bonded brackets indicated that red fluorescence was primarily present around the brackets. ConclusionsApplication of QLF is efficacious in identifying and demarcating adhesive residues within an environment rich in salivary microbiota.

Anti-biofilm activity of a novel nanoemulsion containing Curcuma xanthorrhiza oil

ObjectivesWe aimed to solubilize Curcuma xanthorrhiza oil (CXO) using nanoemulsification and evaluate its inhibitory effects against biofilm formation. MethodsThe components of CXO were evaluated through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. Healthy human saliva was inoculated onto hydroxyapatite discs to form microcosm biofilms for four days and treated six times with each antimicrobial agent: distilled water (DW), CXO emulsion (EM), CXO nanoemulsion (NE), and positive controls (Listerine and chlorhexidine). Biofilm fluorescence imaging was performed using quantitative light-induced fluorescence, and cell viability and dry-weight measurements were obtained. We compared the bacterial cell and extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) biovolume and thickness using confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). ResultsHPLC analysis revealed that CXO was composed of approximately 47% xanthorrhizol. Compared with DW, NE exhibited significantly lower red fluorescence intensity and area (42% and 37%, p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively), and reduced total and aciduric bacterial cell viability (7.3% and 3.9%, p < 0.001, p = 0.01, respectively). Furthermore, the bacterial cell and EPS biovolume and thickness in NE decreased by 40–80% compared to DW, similar to chlorhexidine. Conversely, EM showed a significant difference only in cell viability against total bacteria when compared with DW (p = 0.003), with EPS biovolume and thickness exhibiting higher values than DW. ConclusionsNanoemulsification successfully solubilized CXO and demonstrated superior anti-biofilm effects compared to the emulsion form. Clinical significanceThese findings suggest the potential use of NE as a novel antimicrobial agent for preventing oral diseases.

Repeatability of dental plaque quantitation by light induced fluorescence technology in current, former, and never smokers

BackgroundThe effects of smoking on the accumulation of dental plaque have not been studied in depth. We compared dental plaque quantitation obtained with a novel light induced fluorescence technology among current, former, and never smokers and verified measurements’ repeatability.MethodsDental plaque quantitation was objectively assessed by quantitative light induced fluorescence (QLF) technology on three separate study visits in current, former, and never smokers: baseline (day 0), day 7, day 30. Increase in the fluorescence intensity of at least 30% (ΔR30) and 120% (ΔR120) together with the simple oral hygiene (SOH) scoring were considered for analysis.ResultsThe QLF parameters were highly repeatable in each study group (p < 0.0001, by regression analyses). All QLF parameters showed a significant difference between never smokers and current smokers (p = 0.041 for ΔR30; p = 0.027 for ΔR120; p = 0.04 for SOH). No significant differences were observed between never and former smokers and between current and former smokers except for ΔR120 (p = 0.033).ConclusionDental plaque measurements by QLF technology were highly reproducible and showed greater plaque formation among current smokers compared to non-smokers. Objective and reproducible quantitation of dental plaque can be a valuable clinical and regulatory science endpoint to investigate the effect of smoking cessation medications, combustion-free tobacco products, and consumer care products on oral health.Clinical relevanceThere is a need to objectively evaluate the relationship between smoking and plaque build-up as well as maturation. Current smokers demonstrated greater and more mature plaque buildup when compared to never and former smokers. Differences in plaque build-up and maturation between current, former and non-smokers may be utilized as an effective tool for patient motivation, identifying therapeutic end-points, translational research as well as prognostication.Trial RegistrationThe study is a pilot study parts of a larger project with registration ID: NCT04649645. As preliminary study, the pilot study referred into this paper started before the larger study registered in ClinicalTrials.gov.

Real-time optical detection of endodontic infection using bacterial autofluorescence

ObjectivesFor successful root canal treatment (RCT), it is essential to objectively assess the presence and activity of bacteria in the root canal system. However, current methods rely on subjective observations of root canal exudates. This study aimed to confirm whether real-time optical detection using bacterial autofluorescence can evaluate endodontic infection status by assessing the red fluorescence (RF) detected from root canal exudates. MethodsDuring RCT, endodontic paper points were used to collect root canal exudates scored using conventional organoleptic tests to assess the severity of root canal infections. RF on the paper points was assessed using quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) technology. RF intensity and area from the paper points were quantified, and their correlations with infection severity were assessed using their organoleptic scores. The oral microbiome composition of RF samples was compared with non-red fluorescent (non-RF) samples. ResultsThe RF detection rate was nil and >98% in the non-infectious and severe groups. The RF intensity and area significantly increased with infection severity (p<0.001) and showed strong correlations with organoleptic scores (r=0.72, 0.82, respectively). The diagnostic accuracy for detecting root canal infection using RF intensity was good to excellent (AUC = 0.81−0.95) and increased with infection severity. The microbial diversity of the RF samples was significantly lower than that of the non-RF samples. Gram-negative anaerobic bacteria such as Prevotella and Porphyromonas were more predominant in RF samples. ConclusionsOptical detection using bacterial autofluorescence can objectively evaluate endodontic infection status in real-time by assessing the RF of endodontic root canal exudates. Clinical significanceThis real-time optical technology can be utilised to detect endodontic bacterial infection without conventional incubation, allowing clinicians to determine the endpoint of chemomechanical debridement and increase the positive outcomes of RCTs.

Detection of artificial enamel caries-like lesions with a blue hydroxyapatite-binding porosity probe

ObjectivesThis in vitro study investigated the ability of a blue protein-based hydroxyapatite porosity probe to selectively detect artificial enamel caries-like lesions of varying severities. MethodsArtificial caries-like lesions were formed in enamel specimens using a hydroxyethylcellulose-containing lactic acid gel for 4/12/24/72 or 168 h. One untreated group was used as a control. The probe was applied for 2 min and unbound probe rinsed off with deionized water. Surface color changes were determined spectrophotometrically (L*a*b* color space) and with digital photography. Lesions were characterized using quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF), Vickers surface microhardness, and transverse microradiography (TMR). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA. ResultsDigital photography did not reveal any discoloration in unaffected enamel. However, all lesions stained blue with color intensity positively correlated with demineralization times. The color data reflected similar trends: lesions became significantly darker (L* decreased) and bluer (b* decreased), while overall color differences (ΔE) increased significantly after probe application (4-h lesion, mean±standard deviation: ΔL*=-2.6 ± 4.1/Δb*=0.1 ± 0.8/ΔE=5.5 ± 1.3 vs. 168-h lesion: ΔL*=-17.3 ± 1.1/Δb*=-6.0 ± 0.6/ΔE=18.7 ± 1.1). TMR analysis revealed distinct differences in integrated mineral loss (ΔZ) and lesion depth (L) between demineralization times (4-h lesion: ΔZ=391±190 vol%min × µm/L = 18.1 ± 10.9 µm vs. 168-h lesion: ΔZ=3606±499 vol%min × µm/L = 111.9 ± 13.9 µm). QLF and microhardness were also able to differentiate between demineralization times. L and ΔZ strongly correlated (Pearson correlation coefficient [r]) with Δb* (L vs. Δb*: r=-0.90/ΔZ vs. Δb*: r=-0.90), ΔE (r = 0.85/r = 0.81), and ΔL* (r=-0.79/r=-0.73). ConclusionConsidering the limitations of this study, the blue protein-based hydroxyapatite-binding porosity probe appears to be sufficiently sensitive to distinguish between unaffected enamel and artificial caries-like lesions. Clinical significanceEarly detection of enamel caries lesions remains one of the most critical aspects in the diagnosis and management of dental caries. This study highlighted the potential of a novel porosity probe in detecting artificial caries-like demineralization by objective means.

Comparison of therapies of white spot lesions: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

ObjectiveWhite spot lesions (WSLs), the earliest evidence of enamel demineralization, are considered amenable to intervention to achieve a remineralized or arrested state of caries. The management of WSLs is quite challenging, and there is no definitive cure as yet. We performed a network meta-analysis to assess the efficacy of seven therapies for WSLs and gave a hierarchy of them.Materials and methodsWe systematically searched the PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases (last search: July 2022) to identify all relevant studies. We limited our search to studies published in English. Randomized controlled designed in vitro/clinical trials related to the efficacy of the seven therapies for WSLs were included. Data extraction was performed independently by two reviewers. The risk of bias (ROB) 2.0 tool from Cochrane and a previous in vitro methodological tool will be used for the quality assessment. Variations in quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF), laser fluorescence (LF), and lesions area were the primary outcome measures. Standard mean difference (SMD) was used as the effect size for the Network meta-analysis (NMA). Consistency and inconsistency tests were conducted. The hierarchy of 7 treatment effects was evaluated using surface probabilities under cumulative ranking (SUCRA). Publication bias was evaluated using a bias plot.ResultsForty-two articles were included in the systematic review. Thirty-one of them, with a total of 1906 participants, were included in the network meta-analysis. The studies owned a low and moderate risk of bias. This analysis does not suffer from significant inconsistency. The difference between 4 groups ‘self-assembled peptide (SAP) P11-4’, ‘P11-4 + Fluoride Varnish (FV)’, ‘Resin Infiltration (RI)’, ‘casein phosphor peptides-amorphous calcium fluoride phosphate (CPP-ACFP)’ and the 'Control' group was found to be statistically significant. Compared to the ‘FV’ and ‘casein phosphor peptides-amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP)’ groups, the ‘P11-4 + FV” group and ‘RI” group made a significant difference. The hierarchy was evident in the SUCRA values of 7 therapies. P11-4 + FV and RI were considered effective therapies compared to the control group or the FV group (gold standard group).ConclusionsThe available evidence suggests that resin infiltration and P11-4 in combination with fluoride varnish had advantages over gold standard (FV). The effect of tricalcium phosphate-based drugs and fluoride is not very noticeable. Overall, drugs based on P11-4 and resin infiltration will be better therapies. Using more than two drugs in combination also would increase efficacy.

The effect of calcium toothpastes on the level of oral hygiene and enamel resistance in 12-18-year-old children

Relevance. Oral hygiene improvement and remineralization stimulation are essential to prevent dental caries in children aged 12-18 y.o.Purpose: to compare the oral hygiene and enamel resistance levels in children using toothpastes based on calcium glycerophosphate and calcium lactate.Materials and methods. The study involved 42 children aged from 12 to 18 years. Twenty patients used Novy Zhemchug with Calcium toothpaste as a home oral care product for two months. Twenty-two patients used Toothpaste R.O.C.S.® Active Calcium for two months. The study determined the plaque control record (O’Leary, 1967) and the SHS (Simple Hygiene Score) by quantitative light-induced fluorescence (Qraypen C™) and enamel resistance test (Okushko V.R., 1984). All results were statistically processed.Results. The study found that the O’Leary plaque control record, SHS and the enamel resistance test results were not statistically significant in both study groups. After two months of observation, the O’Leary plaque control record significantly improved in children of both groups. However, the group using Toothpaste R.O.C.S.® Active Calcium demonstrated significantly better values (59.74 ± 4.12%). The SHS was significantly better after two months of use in the children group using Toothpaste R.O.C.S.® Active Calcium compared to the children group using Novy Zhemchug with Calcium toothpaste. The enamel resistance test score significantly improved in children of both groups over two months. The patients using Toothpaste R.O.C.S.® Active Calcium for two months demonstrated the best enamel resistance score.Conclusion. Toothpaste containing calcium compounds is quite effective for oral hygiene and enamel resistance improvement in children aged 12-18 y.o. The best scores were in groups of children who used toothpaste containing calcium glycerophosphate compared to the children group who used too thpastes containing calcium lactate.

Quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) for diagnosis of enamel condition during various dental procedures

Relevance. Quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) is widely used to diagnose the enamel condition during various dental interventions and allows for quick, objective and noninvasive assessment of the patient's oral hygiene status and follow-up of enamel de- and remineralization level.Materials and methods. The QLF technique used by the study increases the visual contrast between sound and diseased oral tissues when various (organic) substances in the mouth absorb light of a certain wavelength (different colours) and then re-emit the absorbed energy at a different wavelength. Filtration of illuminating light gives a fluorescent image or a QLF image. In a clinical setting, we used a QLF equipment set, namely, the Q-ray clinical software; Qraycam pro camera for full-arch imaging; Qraypen C intraoral camera; Qscan plus.Results. QLF was an additional tool for a practising dentist or dental hygienist, which allowed for the detection of the pathological process at the earliest stage, assisting in the diagnosis of the dental enamel condition, the detection of plaque without disclosing agents and assessment of its exact amount, contributing to the identification of hidden foci of enamel demineralization and carious lesions, cracks, tartar and oral hygiene evaluation.The analyzed data show the very high efficiency of the performed therapy with the 'R.O.C.S. medical 0+' remineralizing gel. The objective QLF data fully confirm the external elimination of white spots, and their almost complete disappearance is noted.Conclusion. Quantitative light-induced fluorescence and its parameters are essential not only for understanding the effectiveness of the applied techniques for bleaching, microabrasion, remineralization and other manipulations but also for their safety for dental enamel.

Comparison of early caries diagnosis methods

Relevance. The question of diagnosing tooth decay and, thus, determining treatment methods is still very topical. There is a large number of techniques available for the diagnosis of dental caries in modern dentistry.Objective. The study aimed to compare different caries diagnosis methods to determine the most effective carious lesion detection.Material and methods. We examined in total 45 subjects, 1248 permanent teeth and 5700 tooth surfaces. The dental examination included three diagnostic techniques for each patient: visual-tactile, ICDAS II and quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF). The data were processed and presented graphically using Statistica 12.0 (Stat-Soft) and Microsoft Office Excel 2017 software.Results. According to the DMFS index, in the visual-tactile group, the "D" (decayed) was 3.00 ± 0.02 and the "F" (filled) was 1.93 ± 0.02. Caries intensity in this study group was 6.27 ± 0.58. The ICDAS II examination detected the average caries intensity of 6.93 ± 0.56 (p1-2 &lt; 0.001). There were 3.47 ± 0.02 (p1-2 &lt; 0.001) carious lesions. The "F" score was 2.13 ± 0.01 (p1-2 = 0.024). The QLF diagnostic method showed 7.44 ± 0.54 (p1-3 &lt; 0.001, p2-3 = 0.006) as the mean intensity of caries in permanent teeth; there were 3.84 ± 0.02 (p1-3 &lt; 0.001, p2-3 = 0.015) carious lesions and the "F" was 2.27 ± 0.01 (p1-3 = 0.018, p2-3 = 0.520). The "M" score was 0.27 ± 0.01 (p1-2 = 0.999, p1-3 = 0.999, p2-3 = 0.999), according to all applied techniques.Conclusion. The QLF method had the highest sensitivity and was superior to the visual-tactile method and ICDAS II.

Aesthetic caries infiltration – Long-term masking efficacy after 6 years

ObjectivesThis study aimed to evaluate the masking efficacy of caries infiltration technique of initial caries lesions (ICL) six years after debonding and single treatment. MethodsIn 10 adolescents, 74 ICL (ICDAS 2) in 74 teeth were treated by resin infiltration (Icon, DMG) at a mean (SD) of 1.2 (1.2) months after bracket removal. The etching procedure was performed up to 3 times. Standardized digital images were taken before treatment (T0), seven days (T7) and 6 years (T2190) after treatment. Outcomes included the evaluation of the color differences between carious and healthy enamel at T0, T7 and T2190 by quantitative colorimetric analysis (ΔE), ICDAS scores, quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF; ΔF,ΔQ,WS Area) and qualitative visual evaluation (5-point Likert-scale [deteriorated (1), unchanged (2), improved, but not satisfying (3), improved and no further treatment required (4), completely masked (5)). ResultsThe median color difference ΔΕ0 (25th/75th percentiles) at T0 was 10.3 (8.56/13.0). At T7 a significant decrease was observed (ΔΕ7=3.7 (2.0/5.8); p<0.001; Friedmann-test; ICDAS p<0.001; Chi-square test). No significant changes based on ΔΕ (p=0.972; Friedmann-test) and ICDAS grading (p=0.511, chi-square test) were observed between T7 and T2190 (ΔΕ2190=2.9 (1.8/4.2)). Furthermore, at T2190 four experienced dentists classified 50% and 37% of the lesions as “improved and no further treatment required” and “completely masked”, respectively (Fleiss kappa: T2190: 0.782 (substantial agreement)). ConclusionAesthetic caries infiltration can effectively mask post-orthodontic initial caries lesions for at least 6 years. These results for most of the teeth could not only be observed by quantitative but also by qualitative analysis. Clinical significanceResin infiltration efficaciously masks post-orthodontic initial carious lesions. The optical improvement can be observed directly after treatment and remains stable for at least six years.