Enhancing cementoenamel junction (CEJ) imaging using gold nanorods in optical coherence tomography (OCT)

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Optics
• Nanotechnology in Dentistry
• Dental Imaging

Background:

• The cementoenamel junction (CEJ) is critical for periodontal health.
• Accurate visualization of the CEJ is essential for diagnosing dental conditions.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT) offers non-invasive imaging but can be limited by scattering.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate gold nanorods (AuNRs) as optical clearing agents for enhanced CEJ visualization using OCT.
• To investigate the effect of AuNRs, alone and with glycerol, on OCT image contrast and scattering.
• To assess the potential of AuNRs to improve the detection of clinically significant CEJ features.

Main Methods:

• Extracted teeth (n=80) were analyzed using SEM and EDS for CEJ classification.
• OCT imaging was performed with four contrast conditions: air, glycerol, AuNRs, and AuNRs with glycerol.
• Statistical analysis (ANOVA, Tukey's test) was used to compare imaging results.

Main Results:

• AuNRs significantly enhanced CEJ visualization, particularly when combined with glycerol (G4).
• AuNRs-containing groups showed significantly lower attenuation coefficients in enamel and CEJ regions.
• Attenuation analysis revealed increased absorption in enamel/CEJ with AuNRs and glycerol, while cementum integrity was preserved.

Conclusions:

• Gold nanorods effectively act as optical clearing agents for OCT imaging of the CEJ.
• The combination of AuNRs and glycerol enhances OCT contrast without compromising tooth structure.
• This technique holds promise for improving the diagnostic capabilities of OCT in dentistry, especially for detecting CEJ 'gaps'.