Development of a Visualisation Approach for Analysing Incipient and Clinically Unrecorded Enamel Fissure Caries Using Laser-Induced Contrast Imaging, MicroRaman Spectroscopy and Biomimetic Composites: A Pilot Study

Abstract

This pilot study presents a practical approach to detecting and visualising the initial forms of caries that are not clinically registered. The use of a laser-induced contrast visualisation (LICV) technique was shown to provide detection of the originating caries based on the separation of emissions from sound tissue, areas with destroyed tissue and regions of bacterial invasion. Adding microRaman spectroscopy to the measuring system enables reliable detection of the transformation of the organic–mineral component in the dental tissue and the spread of bacterial microflora in the affected region. Further laboratory and clinical studies of the comprehensive use of LICV and microRaman spectroscopy enable data extension on the application of this approach for accurate determination of the boundaries in the changed dental tissue as a result of initial caries. The obtained data has the potential to develop an effective preventive medical diagnostic approach and as a result, further personalised medical treatment can be specified.

Keywords

• a laser-induced contrast visualisation
• initial caries
• microRaman spectroscopy
• biomimetic composites