The Full Spectrum

I got to see a very cool product in Chicago, the Spectra, from Air Techniques. It combines plaque detection and caries detection. Here's the press release:

Imagine a lightweight, ergonomic hand-held imaging instrument that detects both caries and plaque visually. The diagnostic images displayed on the computer monitor are created using an advanced spectral technology. This remarkable innovation is coming in the spring of 2008 from Air Techniques. With Spectra, one can determine the exact location of carious lesions and plaque on smooth as well as in fissures surfaces.

Spectra operates using fluorescence technology. LED’s project high-energy blue light with a wavelength of 405nm onto the tooth surface. Light of this particular wavelength stimulates cariogenic bacteria to fluoresce red. In contrast, healthy enamel fluoresces green. The captured data is sent to the computer where Visix imaging software interpolates the information and presents the diagnostic image on the monitor. Since the images can be saved in the patient’s electronic file, the efficacy of the treatment program can be monitored over time.