Case Report on Caries Assessment Using Intraoral Scanner Compared with Bitewing Radiographs

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Dental Diagnostics
• Caries Research

Background:

• Dental caries is a prevalent oral health issue requiring regular diagnostics and treatment.
• Current diagnostic methods (visual inspection, bitewing radiography) have limitations in regular checkups.
• Near-infrared imaging (NIRI) offers a potential alternative for regular dental caries diagnostics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of NIRI and bitewing radiography in detecting and monitoring incipient caries lesions.
• To assess the remineralization and caries arresting effects of hydroxyapatite-based oral care products.

Main Methods:

• A case report involving a patient with incipient caries lesions.
• Diagnosis using visual inspection, bitewing radiography, and NIRI.
• Treatment with hydroxyapatite toothpaste and gel.
• Follow-up over 6 months with regular checkups using visual inspection and NIRI.
• Final assessment including bitewing radiographs.

Main Results:

• NIRI and bitewing radiography successfully detected and followed the progression of incipient caries lesions.
• Hydroxyapatite-containing products demonstrated the ability to arrest and remineralize the caries process.
• The study provides initial evidence for the combined diagnostic and therapeutic approach.

Conclusions:

• NIRI is a viable tool for the regular detection and monitoring of early dental caries.
• Hydroxyapatite oral care products are effective in managing incipient caries lesions.
• This case report highlights a promising approach for non-invasive caries management and prevention.