Abstract

Qualitative Evaluation of Changes In Vivo After Interproximal Enamel Reduction

Panagiotis Michail Kanoupakis, Milena Dimitrova Peneva, Valentin Yordanov Moutaftchiev

To use a laser fluorescence device to assess the qualitative changes in interproximal enamel after enamel reduction (interproximal stripping). Methods: Fifty-three patients (32 females and 21 males) with an average age of 15.6 years took part in the investigation. Five hundred and thirty-five tooth surfaces of upper and lower anterior teeth were reassessed at three days, ten days, and one month after enamel reduction using a laser fluorescence method (DIAGNOdent pen). Remineralisation was promoted by the application of fluoride gel and control of oral hygiene. Results: The results showed that there is no risk for developing caries after stripping in cases where intact enamel surfaces registered values of between 0 and 3 when measured with the laser fluorescence method used in this study. Enamel reduction appeared to be appropriate even for surfaces with initial demineralisation of the outer enamel, with values between 4 and 6, because after fluoride application the enamel status returned to within a normal range (0-3). Conclusion: The results from this study demonstrate that with correct diagnosis, as well as selection of intact or even slightly demineralised enamel surfaces, successful implementation of enamel reduction within enamel is possible. This technique, precisely planned, correctly executed, and followed by remineralisation procedures, eliminates the risk of enamel demineralisation.