Optical Coherence Tomography for Patients with Developmental Disabilities: A Preliminary Study.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Imaging
• Dental Diagnostics
• Disability Care

Background:

• Dental radiographs are crucial but challenging for patients with developmental disabilities (PDD).
• Non-ionizing imaging modalities are sought as alternatives to traditional dental X-rays.
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) presents potential for dental imaging in PDD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of intraoral Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) for patients with developmental disabilities (PDD).
• To explore the utility of dental OCT as a diagnostic tool for PDD.
• To evaluate patient-reported pain and discomfort during intraoral OCT imaging.

Main Methods:

• A prototype intraoral OCT system (Yoshida Dental) was used.
• Ten participants with developmental disabilities were recruited from the DECOD Clinic.
• Pain and discomfort levels were measured using the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Rating Scale and a visual analog scale.

Main Results:

• Intraoral OCT imaging was feasible for patients with developmental disabilities.
• The procedure resulted in minimal reported pain and discomfort.
• OCT provides in-depth, three-dimensional imaging without ionizing radiation.

Conclusions:

• Intraoral OCT is a promising, radiation-free imaging technique for patients with developmental disabilities.
• OCT minimizes pain and discomfort, enhancing patient experience in dental care.
• This modality offers a safe and effective alternative to dental radiography for PDD.