Early dental caries detection using a fibre-optic coupled polarization-resolved Raman spectroscopic system.
A new fibre-optic coupled polarization-resolved Raman spectroscopic system was developed for simultaneous collection of orthogonally polarized Raman spectra in a single measurement. An application of detecting incipient dental caries based on changes observed in Raman polarization anisotropy was also demonstrated using the developed fibre-optic Raman spectroscopic system. The predicted reduction of polarization anisotropy in the Raman spectra of caries lesions was observed and the results were consistent with those reported previously with Raman microspectroscopy. The capability of simultaneous collection of parallel- and cross-polarized Raman spectra of tooth enamel in a single measurement and the improved laser excitation delivery through fibre-optics demonstrated in this new design illustrates its future clinical potential.
Institute for Biodiagnostics, National Research Council Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3B 1Y6.
Alex C-T
AC
Ko
Mark
M
Hewko
Michael G
MG
Sowa
Cecilia C S
CC
Dong
Blaine
B
Cleghorn
Lin-P'ing
LP
Choo-Smith
D016880:Anisotropy; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000175:diagnosis*; D003743:Dental Enamel / Q000737:chemistry / Q000473:pathology; D005336:Fiber Optic Technology / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D013059:Spectrum Analysis, Raman / Q000295:instrumentation*