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Noninvasive Quantitative Evaluation of the Dentin Layer during Dental Procedures Using Optical Coherence Tomography
Cosmin Sinescu1, Meda Lavinia Negrutiu1, Adrian Bradu2
1School of Dental Medicine, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 2 Eftimie Murgu Place, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.
Computational and Mathematical Methods in Medicine
|June 17, 2015
Summary
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) provides real-time imaging to measure remaining dentin thickness during cavity preparation. This helps dentists avoid accidental pulp chamber exposure and determine appropriate dental treatment.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Biomedical Imaging
- Optical Engineering
Background:
- Routine dental cavity preparations risk accidental pulp chamber exposure.
- Accurate measurement of remaining dentin thickness (RDT) is crucial for preventing pulp exposure.
- Current methods may lack real-time, quantitative assessment during procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively evaluate drilled cavities in real-time using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT).
- To assess the feasibility of preventing accidental pulp chamber openings during dental procedures.
- To determine the usefulness of OCT in guiding cavity preparation and treatment decisions.
Main Methods:
- An in vivo study using six human teeth with dental cavities.
- Assembly and utilization of a custom Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) system.
- Real-time assessment of distances between cavity bases and the pulp chamber, calculating RDT.
Main Results:
- OCT enabled real-time quantitative evaluation of drilled cavities and RDT.
- The system allowed for precise positioning of drilling tools relative to pulp horns.
- Distinction between safe and critical RDT was established, indicating risk of pulp exposure.
- Fracture detection aided in deciding between endodontic or conventional filling treatments.
Conclusions:
- OCT imaging is a valuable tool for real-time guidance during dental cavity preparations.
- This technique enhances safety by preventing accidental pulp chamber openings.
- OCT assists dentists in making informed therapeutic decisions based on cavity extent and RDT.
