Optical-based diagnostic technique for detection of tooth caries using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

A laser-based emission-type diagnostic technique using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for the in vivo analysis of tooth enamel is described. The system aims to improve the promptness of laser dental treatment and accuracy of identifying early caries from healthy teeth. Our research group has been developing the LIBS system for various applications. In addition to the research on the LIBS system, a novel microdental endoscope to observe fractures near the root apex has been developed in a recent study. The LIBS system for dentistry presented in this paper is the first attempt to combine the techniques of the microdental endoscope and the spectroscopic measurement from our group. In the LIBS operation, not only the elemental information is obtained, but also the pulse-operated-condensed laser generates microsized plasma on the surface of the materials when it removes trace substances. The combination technique using LIBS with the microdental endoscope allows noncontact dental diagnosis with chemical analysis and dental treatment at the same time.