The Importance of Early Diagnosis for Hydroxyapatite Remineralisation in Enamel Caries

The aim of the present study is to compare the effectiveness of the diagnosis with a clinical examination, digital imaging fiber-optic transilumination (DIFOTI) technology (DIAGNOcam) and X-ray examination in proximal caries diagnosis of permanent dentition. Fifteen adult patients were examined. They were first visual examined under magnification. After that, a diagnosis with DIAGNOcam was performed. Bitewing Xray images were administered. The data from the three diagnostic methods was compared. The visual examination seriously underestimated lesions involving only enamel. In these cases there was a good correlation between DIFOTI and X-ray data but DIFOTI is more accurate compared to bitewing radiography because the extension of tooth structure demineralization can be more precise to evaluate and helps in determining the treatment course, non-invasive approach through remineralisation or minimally-invasive intervention.