New methods in cavity detection

Abstract

Introduction: Currently, there is significant interest in the early detection and treatment of cavities. Dental caries, the primary cause of tooth decay, ranks among the most prevalent chronic oral diseases globally. Caries develops due to multiple cycles of demineralization and remineralization, which are natural processes occurring within the oral cavity. Aim of the Study: The present study aims to observe the effectiveness of the Vista Cam IX device (Durr Dental, Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany) in detecting incipient caries on the occlusal surfaces of posterior teeth and in the non-invasive conservative treatment of non-cavitated on posterior teeth. Material and Methods: For this study, 5 clinical cases (young adults aged 18-30 years) were examined using intraoral images and the fluorescent camera Vista Cam iX. Inclusion criteria were 5 first lower molars with occlusal carious lesions coded 1, 2, and 3 according to the ICDAS-II classification. Exclusion criteria were surfaces with restorations, extensive lesions, or enamel defects. Before commencing the procedure, the dentist underwent training according to the manufacturer's specifications. Measurements using the Vista Cam iX were performed at the tooth level, with isolation and drying using cotton rolls. The measured values, ranging from 0-3, corresponded to the severity of the lesion. Measurements were repeated on the same teeth one year after completion of non-invasive treatment. Results and Discussions: Out of the total number of surfaces examined, 60% were male patients and 40% were female, all of whom presented carious lesions in pits and fissures with an ICDAS-II score ranging from 1-3. Upon reevaluation after 1 year, 22 carious sites were detected. According to the results of this study, it can be stated that the Vista Cam iX, alongside the intraoral camera with high magnification, demonstrated a good ability to detect even the smallest lesions in pits and fissures. For one year, only preventive treatments were performed, and upon evaluation after one year, no progression of caries depth was observed in patients who adhered to oral hygiene recommendations. However, for those who did not follow the recommendations, an increase in lesion diameter was observed. Conclusions: The present study concludes that a combination of various detection methods, including the ICDAS-II classification, the intraoral camera with high magnification, and the fluorescent camera Vista Cam iX, is the key to achieving increased clinical efficiency and providing clinicians with precise data about the current status of the lesion. This aids in selecting the ideal treatment for the case