Study demonstrates iTero 5D NIRI technology offers “significant benefits” in caries detection
Align Technology has recently revealed the findings of a multi-centre clinical study, “Reflected near-infrared light versus bite-wing radiography for the detection of proximal caries: a multicentre prospective clinical study conducted in private practices,” published in the peer-reviewed Journal of Dentistry (Oct. 24, 2021).
The study – designed to compare the detection of interproximal caries by dentists using near infra-red technology (NIRI) and bitewing radiography -validates and further demonstrates the “significant benefits” of the iTero Element 5D imaging system as an aid in the detecting and monitoring of interproximal caries lesions above the gingiva without harmful radiation.
The results demonstrated high accuracy (p<0.0001) detection of early enamel lesions (88.6%) and of carious lesions involving the dentino-enamel junction (96.9%). In addition, the study compared NIRI and bitewing radiography to visual caries debridement.
When compared against clinical evaluation of posterior proximal lesions observed during caries debridement, the NIRI technology of the iTero Element 5D imaging system was 66% more sensitive than bitewing x-ray technology and demonstrated 96% sensitivity for posterior interproximal lesions detections.
Yuval Shaked, senior vice president and managing director, iTero scanner and services business, said: “We are pleased to see the results of these clinical findings further validate what doctors and their patients have experienced. The visualisation capabilities of the iTero Element 5D imaging system helps in the early detection of cavities without x-ray radiation.
“This study emphasises the valuable role that the iTero 5D imaging system with NIRI technology is already providing doctors and their staff to support their dental assessments of patients and overall patient oral healthcare and treatment options. When combined with the ease of use and comfortable experience for a broad population of patients, the iTero 5D imaging system with NIRI technology is an essential tool for any doctor’s practice.”
As part of the study, the iTero Element 5D imaging system was used to perform intraoral scans on 100 patients in five dental clinics across Germany and Canada. The iTero Element 5D imaging system includes NIRI technology that scans the internal structure of a tooth in real time that aids in caries detection while simultaneously capturing 3D colour images of dentition.
Reflected near infra-red-light images of posterior teeth were used to detect interproximal caries and the results were then compared to bitewing radiography. NIRI was found to be more sensitive than bitewing radiography in detecting early enamel lesions and comparable in detecting dentinal lesions.
Lead study author Dr Zvi Metzger, Professor, Departments of Oral Biology and Endodontology, at The Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Tel Aviv University, commented on the study findings.
“Reflected near infra-red-light images generated simultaneously during 3D scanning of dental arches with the iTero Element 5D imaging system scanner may be used reliably for detection, screening and monitoring of proximal caries. This method for caries detection may potentially minimise the traditional use of ionising radiation.”
Dr Peggy Bown, a participant in the study, added: “As a current user of the iTero Element 5D imaging system, participating in the study was very beneficial to me. I could further see the clinical value of the iTero Element 5D imaging system through its high sensitivity at detecting early enamel lesions and ease-of-use.
“Having one system, one scan, and one tip eliminates the need for multiple devices, repetitive sterilisation, and minimises the use of harmful radiation.”
The study was sponsored by Align Technology. iTero NIRI technology is the same across the iTero Element 5D system and some configurations of iTero Element Plus imaging systems since the wand, optics and software are the same. Visit www.aligntech.com for more information.
