Can the individual calibration be modified when laser fluorescence method is used for caries detection?

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Biophotonics
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Individual calibration (IC) for fluorescence-based caries detection is time-intensive, particularly for pediatric dentists when performed tooth-by-tooth.
• The precise impact of different IC modes on laser fluorescence (LF) readings for caries detection remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of various individual calibration (IC) methods on laser fluorescence (LF) readings in vivo.
• To assess the impact of different calibration strategies on the accuracy and reproducibility of LF caries detection.

Main Methods:

• Ninety-six occlusal and 95 buccal surfaces of permanent molars were examined using an LF device.
• IC was performed using different modes: no calibration (control), the examined tooth, a permanent incisor, a first primary molar, or a second primary molar, all within the same child.
• Statistical analysis included Wilcoxon test, Bland-Altman analysis, and calculation of intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC).

Main Results:

• Laser fluorescence readings were significantly higher when no prior calibration was performed compared to any IC mode.
• The absence of calibration also resulted in different ICC values, indicating reduced reproducibility.
• LF readings after various IC modes (excluding no calibration) were statistically similar.

Conclusions:

• The absence of individual calibration (IC) significantly impacts laser fluorescence (LF) readings and their reproducibility in caries detection.
• Different IC methods can be considered viable options in clinical practice, offering flexibility for dentists.
• These findings suggest that while calibration is crucial, specific tooth-by-tooth calibration may not always be necessary, potentially streamlining the diagnostic process.