Caries diagnosis

Caries detection is a key step in the gathering and synthesis of information that makes up the caries diagnostic process. Therefore, uniting caries detection and activity assessment is an important step in deciding the optimal treatment for a patient. Laser fluorescence (LF) methods are relatively new compared to traditional methods, such as visual inspection and radiography. Meticulous visual examination is the more complete option in caries diagnosis, but it still falls short of the ideal. Techniques such as the LF/LFpen offer a potential advantage as they give objective and recordable measurements. Also, the use of these devices avoids the use of ionizing radiation. Special attention should be given to caries activity assessment. The overall conclusion is that the LF and LFpen are useful caries diagnostic tools, but they need to be used by adequately trained clinicians who understand the limitations as well as the advantages of this technology.