Study of the Diagnosis to Early Stage of Caries in Premature Permanent Teeth -T he assessment of inspection /palpation, optical examination and microbiological finding-

Abstract

The author was interested in the reliability of diagnosing dental caries in the occlusal pit and fissure of premature first and second molars.
The teeth, diagnosed as caries free, CO and C based on inspection and examinatied with an explorer were measured and assessed using the DIAGNOdent^TM value, the ratio of mutans streptococci against the total amount of streptococci in the plaque, the salivary volume and salivary buffer, respectively.
The results were as follows.
1. The accuracy of c aries diagnosis with inspection and examination using an explorer under a bright light was generally correct based on the DIAGNOdent^TM value and the ratio of mutans streptococci against the total amount of streptococci in the plaque.
2. Positive relationships were found among the DIAGNOdent^TM value, the ratio of mutans streptococci against the total amount of streptococci in the plaque.
The results suggested that the accuracy of c aries diagnosis by inspection and examination using an explorer under a bright light was generally correct, and the assessments of the optical and microbiological findings indicated enamel destruction and caries activity were useful for the prevention and instruction concerning early stage of caries in youngster.