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

Monitoring changes intooth structures and early diagnosis of carious lesions require quantitative imaging techniques. A chalky white spot on the tooth’s surface indicates enamel demineralization, early stage of thecarious lesion. Many advanced imaging modalities for identifying tooth tissuesimagehave been created, including magnetic resonance imaging(MRI), 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 dosesof radiation and energy that might harmpatient’s health. Most early commercial OCTs had limitations,such as bulkysizeandlow image resolution. To address the issues, this study proposes a dual mode tomography technique by combining OCT and ultrasound systemusing COMSOLMultiphysics software.Both methods offered non-invasive, non-ionizing, economical, and painless imaging techniques.The application of ultrasound system will help to overcome the OCT’s limitation 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 may offer the best approach for displaying and examiningchanges inthe oral cavity.