Work

Comparison of Human and Porcine Natural Tooth Fluorescence—A Scoping Study to Inform Research on Dental Materials and Forensic Dentistry

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Understanding human tooth structure fluorescence aids clinical and forensic dentistry, enabling tissue/material differentiation and the creation of esthetic restorative materials. Material manufacturers seek to replicate natural tooth fluorescence, necessitating the development of novel techniques to detect them. Procuring human teeth for research is challenging due to ethical and infection control standards, prompting a search for alternative models. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study compares visible light-induced fluorescence of porcine and human teeth to assess the value of porcine teeth as human analogs. Using a pulsed laser, an optimal fluorescence-inducing wavelength was determined, followed by comparing fluorescence spectra between species. RESULTS: Luminescence sensitivity and lifetimes were comparable between species, but spectral geometry differed. CONCLUSION: Porcine teeth, commonly used for dental material investigations, may not be suitable for dental fluorescence studies due to spectral differences. Accurately mimicking human tooth fluorescence remains complex. Further research is needed to develop reliable alternatives for dental fluorescence investigations that will advance clinical and forensic dentistry.

Source: Clinical and Experimental Dental Research

DOI: 10.1002/cre2.70052

Authors: Thomas Corfield, Denice Higgins

Institution: The University of Adelaide

Language: English

Topic: Dental materials and restorations

Subfield: Orthodontics

Field: Dentistry

Domain: Health Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,120

Funder: University of Adelaide