A Multi-modality Detection And Volumetric Assessment Of Dental Caries.

The aim of this in vitro study is to explore demineralization detection abilities and conduct a volumetric assessment of caries in extracted teeth using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), ultrasound and Scanning Acoustic Microscopy (SAM), and x-rays imaging (micro CT). Sound and carious extracted human molars were collected under ethical approval at the Eastman Dental Institute (N>12). Four groups were created using ICDAS score 2 to 4 (incl. control). Following comparative analyses of the ranked ICDAS lesions, we identified unique SAM and OCT scattering markers which could be correlated to tooth histology. Following this, the methods for caries volumetric assessment based on the multi-modality imaging techniques have been examined. The calculated concordance coefficients between estimated volumes show a good correspondence. Finally, volumetric correlation between SAM & OCT scans and ICDAS were reviewed as a potential clinical diagnostic approach.
The optical and ultrasonic methods used in the study proved to be a possible alternative to ionizing radiation techniques used in current clinical settings. The further improvements in the experimental design will eliminate necessity of surface exposers so the OCT and ultrasound could be used as complementary technologies.

Faculty Supervisor:

Roman Maev

Student:

Partner:

University College London

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Windsor

Program: