Diagnostic Utilization of Laser Fluorescence for Resin Infiltration in Primary Teeth

This study was performed to evaluate clinical use of laser fluorescence (LF) to identify early childhood caries lesions suitable for applying resin infiltration. 20 exfoliated primary molars with proximal caries were selected and cut buccolingually cross the central pit for regarding the mesial and distal surfaces respectively. 27 specimens corresponding to ICDAS code 1 and 2 were selected and the LF values were measured. When infiltrant resin was applied, double staining for microscopy detection has done simultaneously. Tooth samples were sliced with 0.7 mm thick. The maximum lesion depth, maximum penetration depth, and average penetration rate were measured from the confocal scanning laser microscope image. Pearson correlation analysis was performed. The intraclass correlation coefficient of LF values shows excellent agreement. LF values had positive correlation with penetration rate, but not lesion depth and penetration depth. Significant correlation between LF readings and penetration rate was verified in deep enamel caries and dentin caries except shallow enamel caries. Infiltrant resin could penetrate with a higher rate and LF values could be increased in more active caries lesions. In assessing radiologically similar caries lesion, laser fluorescence might be useful for identifying caries activity.