A Conceptual Model of Dual-Mode Tomography Technique for Dental Diagnostics

Abstract

Monitoring changes of tooth structures and early diagnosis of carious lesions require quantitative imaging techniques. A chalky white spot on the surface of the tooth indicates enamel demineralization, which causes carious disease. Many advanced imaging modalities for identifying image tooth tissues have been created, including magnetic resonance imaging, X-ray Computed Tomography, Positron Emission Tomography (PET), ultrasound, Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT), and the most recent, Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). In obtaining image information, some modalities use high dosages of radiation and energy that might be harmful to patient’s health. This study focuses on the conceptual modelling of portable dental diagnostics based on OCT and ultrasound technique, which is currently being researched and developed to build a superior one using COMSOL Multiphysics software. Both methods offered a non-invasive, non-ionizing, economical, and painless imaging techniques. Most early commercial OCT’s had limitation where it sizes is bulky and low image resolution. To address the issues, this study proposes a dual mode tomography technique by combining OCT and ultrasound system. The application of ultrasound system will help to overcome the limitation that facing by the OCT to detect the penetration depth of caries lesion. Several simulations were performed to analyze the light and ultrasonic propagated waves which penetrate through the incisor teeth. In response to this goal, images of incisor teeth were created in silico with a high spatial resolution. As a result, the combination of OCT and ultrasound will offer the best approach for displaying and examining the oral cavity for dentistry field.