Evaluation of residual dentin thickness using quantitative light-induced fluorescence technology

Abstract

This study aimed to determine whether a correlation exists between residual dentin thickness and quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) values and, if so, to analyze its tendencies. Forty extracted sound human molars were assigned to filled and unfilled groups. The teeth were submerged in a mold with clear acrylic resin. Red utility wax was inserted into the pulp chamber space in the filled group to simulate vital pulp. The specimen was sectioned longitudinally to observe the inside of the pulp space. The samples were cut horizontally from the highest point of the pulp space 2 mm apart. QLF images were then taken of 2 mm, 1 mm, and 0.5 mm samples using the QLF-D Biluminator™ 2 + system. Three operators independently evaluated the QLF images, and the statistical analysis was conducted using one-way analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficients, and intraclass correlation coefficients. In the filled group, the mean ΔF values for residual dentin thicknesses of 2 mm, 1 mm, and 0.5 mm were - 3.22, - 7.84, and - 11.52, respectively. In the unfilled group, the mean ΔF values were 0, - 6.90, and - 10.14, respectively. A positive correlation was found between residual dentin thickness and ΔF values (P < 0.05). The intraclass correlation coefficients for observations made by the three operators for the filled and unfilled groups were 0.831 and 0.917, respectively (P < 0.05). In conclusion, residual dentin thickness and ΔF values were significantly correlated and had a highly positive correlation regardless of the QLF device operator.