Enamel Demineralization and Remineralization Detection Using Non-invasive Optical Imaging
Hijab Fatemah Memon, Suraiya Hirani, Jaweria Yousfani, Reema Aslam, Sehar Mushtaque, Iqra Memon
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ABSTRACT
Introduction: Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), is one of the most emerging diagnostic imaging technique.
It is capable of producing 3D images using optical scattering media. The fast signal acquisition quality has made it
a promising tool to detect early in vivo and in vitro lesions. The aim of this study was to reproduce previous
demineralization results and to detect remineralization using OCT.
Methodology: Bovine enamel discs were used thoroughly in this study. The study was done using the flow cell
for detecting demineralization and remineralization following 96 hours demineralization and 192 hours
remineralization. A time lapse monitoring was done and the lesions were assessed visually. ImageJ software was
used to process the images produced through OCT. The lesion depth and intensity was measured across the
images produced which helped in assessing the difference between remineralization and demineralization.
Results: OCT B-scan images result in increased backscattering light which is considered the main principle to
measure lesion depth and mineral loss. Whereas, in remineralization decreased band of light appeared with
reduction in porosity during mineral precipitation. The results for remineralization were diverse and could not be
assessed.
Conclusion: OCT is favorable technique to detect demineralization and remineralization but it still needs a lot of
improvement especially regarding remineralization there are limitations which need to be improved.