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Detection of subgingival calculus with a novel LED-based optical probe
Felix Krause1, Andreas Braun, Søren Jepsen
1Department of Periodontology, Operative and Preventive Dentistry, University Dental Clinic-Bonn, Welschnonnenstrasse 17, 53111 Bonn, Germany. fkrause@uni-bonn.de
Journal of Periodontology
|July 16, 2005
Summary
A novel LED-based optical probe can detect subgingival calculus in vitro. This device may help determine the completion of root surface instrumentation during periodontal therapy.
Area of Science:
- Periodontology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Diagnostic Devices
Background:
- Subgingival calculus diagnosis traditionally relies on subjective clinical assessment.
- A new LED-based optical probe offers objective detection capabilities.
- This study evaluates the in vitro efficacy of this novel device.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of detecting subgingival calculus using a novel LED-based optical probe.
- To evaluate the probe's performance under varying conditions and compare it to established diagnostic methods.
Main Methods:
- Extracted human teeth with calculus were analyzed using an optical probe at different angulations (0-90 degrees).
- Measurements were taken on root surfaces with ambient fluids like sodium chloride (NaCl) or blood.
- Results were compared against clinical and histological findings, defining "length of positive values" (LPV).
Main Results:
- Positive measurement values correlated with clinically and histologically evident subgingival calculus.
- Probe angulation influenced LPV, with shorter lengths in blood and longer in NaCl (P <0.05).
- Lower angulations reduced sensitivity and/or specificity for both tested ambient fluids.
Conclusions:
- The optical probe demonstrates potential for objective subgingival calculus detection.
- This technology may serve as a tool to ascertain the endpoint of root instrumentation in non-surgical periodontal therapy.