| |
Standard methods of caries detection by visual examination combined with tactile explorer response and radiographs are limited. Limitations include the inability to detect early bacterial activity within fissures, beneath the surface of the tooth or below the surfaces of restorations. Quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF™) is a new method for oral health assessment, providing additional visual information about caries and bacterial activity. This new method uses the principle of fluorescence for visual enhancement of caries detection and bacterial activity. The method relies on contrast differences between sound and demineralized dentin by fluorescence. Specificity for caries detection and longitudinal changes in de/remineralization is enhanced over current methods. QLF™ is on the verge of moving from research into clinical practice, after a long period of study and validation. This method has enhanced ability over standard visual methods to provide: assessment of caries, assessment and quality improvement of sealants and restorations, and visual aid for patient education in caries prevention. This paper describes several cases and future applications of QLF™ for clinical practice. |