The efficacy of laser fluorescence to detect in vitro demineralization and remineralization of smooth enamel surfaces.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the laser fluorescence (LF) device in detecting in vitro demineralization and remineralization of smooth surface caries-like lesions.


BACKGROUND
The early detection of smooth surface caries-like lesions is important to provide proper management of carious lesions, and allows monitoring of them over time. Also, some authors suggest that LF could be useful in monitoring the caries pathological process.


METHODS
Seventy-eight blocks of bovine teeth were obtained, and then submitted to artificial caries lesion induction and to a pH-cycling process. Superficial microhardness (SMH) and laser fluorescence analysis were performed at baseline, after induction of caries-like lesions, and after the pH-cycling regimen to promote remineralization.


RESULTS
Friedman's and multiple comparison tests were performed for all variables. SMH analysis showed significant differences (p +/- 0.05) between baseline (286.77 +/- 1.49 Vickers hardness number [VHN] units), before (38.48 +/- 0.85 VHN), and after remineralization (131.93 +/- 2.63 VHN). Baseline values for LF were extremely low (2.71 +/- 0.05), and a statistically significant difference was observed only after remineralization (3.61 +/- 0.08), as demonstrated by the increase in LF values.


CONCLUSIONS
The LF device did not show efficacy for monitoring in vitro demineralization and remineralization of smooth enamel surfaces.
Diniz
Michele Baffi
MB
Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry of Araraquara, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Araraquara, SP, Brazil. mibdiniz@hotmail.com
Paes Leme
Adriana Franco
AF
Cardoso
Kátia de Sousa
Kde S
Rodrigues
Jonas de Almeida
Jde A
Cordeiro
Rita de Cássia Loiola
Rde C
D000818:Animals; D002417:Cattle; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000175:diagnosis; D003743:Dental Enamel; D005453:Fluorescence; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D007834:Lasers; D017001:Tooth Demineralization; D014089:Tooth Remineralization