• OCT proves more effective in tooth decay detection

    Optical coherence tomography (OCT) appears to detect tooth decay beneath commonly used dental sealants more effectively than visual or radiographic examination, according to a study.
    Sept. 27, 2010
    2 min read

    Optical coherence tomography (OCT) appears to detect tooth decay beneath commonly used dental sealants more effectively than visual or radiographic examination, according to a study published online on September 16 in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine.

    Jennifer S. Holtzman, D.D.S., of the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, and colleagues divided 40 extracted teeth into equal groups of carious and non-carious teeth, determined by visual inspection. Teeth were randomly assigned to sealant placement with one of four commonly purchased dental sealants (Clinpro, Fuji Triage, Embrace Wet Bond and Delton) after radiographs and OCT imaging were completed. After placement of the sealants, teeth were again radiographed, imaged with OCT, sectioned and examined histologically.

    The investigators found that dentists who underwent 90 minutes of training were able to detect tooth decay more accurately with OCT than with visual or radiographic examination. Detection using OCT was somewhat better before sealants were placed than afterward, with this effect varying in size depending on sealant type used. Detection with radiography was also somewhat better prior to sealant placement than afterward. Delton provided excellent positive predictive value and the best post-sealant negative predictive values compared to the other sealants used.

    "Using OCT, dentists are able to diagnose sound and demineralized teeth with lower rates of false positives and false negatives than clinical or radiographic examination," the authors write.

    Source: HealthDay News

    Posted by Lee Mather

    Follow us on Twitter

    Subscribe now to BioOptics World magazine; it's free!

    Sign up for Laser Focus World Newsletters
    Get the latest news and updates.

    Voice Your Opinion!

    To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!