Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy: a tool for real-time, in vitro and in vivo identification of carious teeth

摘要: Background: Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) can be used to measure trace element concentrations in solids, liquids and gases, with spatial resolution absolute quantifaction being feasible, down parts-per-million concentration levels. Some applications of LIBS do not necessarily require exact, quantitative measurements. These include dentistry, which are a more "identify-and-sort" nature – e.g. identification teeth affected by caries. Methods: A one-fibre light delivery / collection assembly for analysis was used, principle lends itself routine vitro vivo dental practice. number evaluation algorithms data assess the similarity spectrum, measured at specific sample locations, training set reference spectra. Here, description has been restricted one pattern recognition algorithm, namely so-called Mahalanobis Distance method. Results: The plasma created when laser pulse ablates (in vivo), spectrally analysed. We demonstrated that, using we could unambiguously determine identity an "unknown" tooth real time. Based on single spectra obtained from sample, transition caries-affected healthy material distinguished, high resolution. Conclusions: combination provides potentially useful tool dentists fast problems, such as example precise control drilling cleaning process.