Light induced fluorescence evaluation: A novel concept for caries diagnosis and excavation

Abstract

In the era of minimal invasive dentistry, every effort should be directed to preserve the maximum tooth structure during cavity preparation. However, while making cavities, clinicians usually get indecisive at what point caries excavation should be stopped, so as to involve only the infected dentin. Apparent lack of valid clinical markers, difficulties with the use of caries detector dyes and chemo mechanical caries removal systems carve out a need for an improved system, which would be helpful to differentiate between the healthy and infected dentin during caries excavation. Light induced fluorescence evaluation is a novel concept implicated for caries detection and for making decisions while cavity preparation. This paper describes a few cases that explain the clinical applicability of this concept, using the SoproLife camera that works on this principle. Autofluorescence masking effect was found to be helpful for caries detection and the red fluorescence in the treatment mode was found helpful in deciding 'when to stop the excavation process.' Light induced fluorescence evaluation - Diagnosis - Treatment concept concept can be used as a guide for caries detection and excavation. It also facilitates decision making for stopping the caries excavation so as to involve infected dentin only.

Keywords: Dentinal caries; light induced fluorescence; minimal invasive dentistry; soprolife.

Figure 1

(a) White Light Image of 36, (b) Image showing loss in fluorescence on the Disto Occlusal aspect and green fluorescence on Mesio Occlusal aspect, (c) Image of cavity (A shallow cavity on the Mesio Occlusal aspect), Green fluorescence was achieved at the end of excavation, (d) Image of cavity (A deep cavity on Disto Occlusal aspect), (e) Image with validated red fluorescence. (Another patient), (f) Acid green fluorescence at the end of cavity

Figure 2

(a) Validated red fluorescence, (b) White light Image after caries excavation, (c) Image during cavity preparation showing bright red fluorescence