title: Quantitative light fluorescence: a technology for early monitoring of the caries process.
abstract: Quantitative light fluorescence (QLF) can detect about twice as many demineralized precavitated enamel areas a conventional visual examination or any other caries detection instrument. This technology has been used in several controlled clinical trials with the consistent observation that it is capable of monitoring and quantifying changes in the mineral content and size of clinically visible noncavitated white spot lesions; therefore, it can be used to assess the impact of preventive measures on the remineralization and reversal of the caries process. The anticipated future use of QLF with dehydration to identify active areas of demineralization will markedly enhance the utility of this technology in clinical dental research and dental practice.
authors.affiliation: Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry, Indiana University School of Dentistry, 1121 West Michigan Street, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA. gstookey@iupui.edu
authors.forename: George K
authors.initials: GK
authors.lastname: Stookey
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology; D003732:Dental Caries Activity Tests / Q000379:methods*; D003743:Dental Enamel / Q000473:pathology / Q000528:radiation effects*; D005453:Fluorescence; D006801:Humans; D007834:Lasers; D008027:Light; D008875:Middle Aged; D017001:Tooth Demineralization / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology