Analysis of dental caries using laser fluorescence and wavelength sensitive imaging

Barry E. Paton; Joseph R. Barron; Kenneth L. Zakariasen D.D.S.

doi:10.1117/12.184883

7 September 1994 Analysis of dental caries using laser fluorescence and wavelength sensitive imaging

Barry E. Paton, Joseph R. Barron, Kenneth L. Zakariasen D.D.S.

Proceedings Volume 2128, Laser Surgery: Advanced Characterization, Therapeutics, and Systems IV; (1994) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.184883
Event: OE/LASE '94, 1994, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

It is well known that fluorescence emission is produced when human dental enamel is irradiated with short-wavelength optical radiation. A limitation to wide acceptance of laser scanning is the scan acquisition time -- often over thirty minutes. This paper discusses a new approach to laser scanning that overcomes the above limitation while preserving the precision of micro-scanning. A surface of a tooth is flooded with laser light and an image of the fluorescence signal is acquired through a narrow wavelength window, typically 10 nm. An electronic optical filter selects the optical window and presents it to a CCD array. Under computer control, images at specific wavelengths can be obtained. By selecting regions which are most sensitive to fluorescence, the optical properties of a tooth surface can be rapidly determined. In the research version, a scanning laser fluorometer, co-aligned with the imaging system, allows precision fluorescence measurements of small regions identified by the imaging system.

Citation Download Citation

Barry E. Paton, Joseph R. Barron, and Kenneth L. Zakariasen D.D.S. "Analysis of dental caries using laser fluorescence and wavelength sensitive imaging", Proc. SPIE 2128, Laser Surgery: Advanced Characterization, Therapeutics, and Systems IV, (7 September 1994); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.184883

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