Abstract

Background: Laser fluorescence for caries detection, caries detecting dyes and air abrasion, as an exploratory tool, aid in practicing minimal invasive dentistry. AIM: To clinically assess newer method of caries detection of non cavitated lesions and to contrast and correlate with the traditional methods Materials and Methods: 200 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria in first and or second mandibular molar were included in the study. Depending on the laser fluorescence values, visual and radiographic scoring the selected patients were designated to the following groups: Group I: 0-14 DIAGNOdent reading, Ekstrand criteria scoring- 0 in both clinical and radiographic evaluation. No caries- No active treatment (Control) Group II: 15- 25 DIAGNOdent reading, Ekstrand criteria scoring- 0, 1 in both clinical and radiographic evaluation. Remineralized by CPP ACP F paste. Group III: gt; 25 DIAGNOdent reading, Ekstrand criteria scoring- 0, 1, 2, in both clinical and radiographic evaluation. Enamel biopsy was done by Air Abrasion. Statistical Analysis: The statistical analysis was done by Chi square test of significance for proportion analysis. Result: Of 200 teeth which were evaluated, it was found that 153 patients had caries, but it was correctly detected in 150 patients by laser fluorescence, in 83 patients by visual method and in 50 patients by radiographic method. Conclusion: 1. Laser fluoresce method of caries detection is a valuable adjunct in caries detection. 2. Air abrasion can be used as an exploratory tool to confirm hidden caries.