In vitro pH analysis of active and arrested dentinal caries in extracted human teeth using a micro pH sensor

The aim of this study was to evaluate the pH at the surface of active or arrested carious dentin using a micro pH sensor, and to compare the relationship between different pH measurement techniques. Twenty extracted carious teeth were divided into two groups, active or arrested caries, according to predefined clinical criteria before extraction. The surface pH values of carious dentin were measured using three methods: surface pH directly measured using a micro pH sensor (Direct); sectioned teeth measured using a pH-imaging microscope (Imaging) or micro pH sensor (Slice). For all techniques, statistically significant differences in pH values were observed between active and arrested dentinal caries (p<0.05). In addition, positive relations between the three pH measurement methods were found. In conclusion, Direct pH measurement using micro pH sensor might assist in caries lesion assessment and clinical treatment based on the concept of Minimal Intervention.