The Effectiveness of iTero Element 5D NIRI System in Early Proximal Caries Detection in Permanent Teeth

Comparison of Near-infrared Imaging With Cone Beam Computed Tomography for Proximal Caries Detection in Permanent Dentition: An in Vivo Study.

As a new emerging technology for the diagnosis of dental caries, near-infrared imaging requires further research and validation to determine its effectiveness. This study aims to compare near-infrared imaging with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to validate the efficiency of near-infrared imaging in diagnosing proximal caries using large-scale clinical data through retrospective cross-sectional studies.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Permanent dentition
• Participants aged 12 and above
• Patients who have undergone iTero Element 5D oral scanning, as well as CBCT imaging, intraoral photography, and clinical oral examination within 1 week
• CBCT or iTero Element 5D oral scanning indicating proximal caries

Exclusion Criteria:

The following teeth were excluded:

• Third molars
• Teeth with gross loss of tooth structure (cavitated carious lesions extending to the occlusal or buccal/lingual surfaces)
• Teeth with amalgam fillings and their adjacent teeth
• Teeth with crown restorations and their adjacent teeth