This study aims to evaluate and compare the diagnostic accuracy of visual examination using ICDAS-II and three adjunctive optical methods-laser fluorescence (LF), near-infrared light transillumination (NILT), and quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF)-for the detection of non-cavitated occlusal caries lesions in children. A total of 51 children aged 6-14 years, including 320 posterior teeth, will be examined under standardized clinical conditions. Diagnostic performance will be assessed using sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and area under the curve (AUC) values. The findings are expected to support the use of adjunctive diagnostic methods for early detection and minimally invasive management of occlusal caries.
Who can participate
Age range6 Years – 14 Years
SexALL
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Inclusion Criteria:
* Voluntary agreement to participate in the study after the research procedures have been explained.
* Being between 6 and 14 years of age.
* Presence of at least one posterior tooth that is either sound with an ICDAS score of 0 or exhibits a non-cavitated occlusal carious lesion classified as ICDAS scores 1 or 2.
* Having an occlusal surface suitable for standardized clinical and optical evaluation using Diagnodent Pen, Diagnocam, and QLF devices.
* Absence of excessive plaque accumulation on the tooth surface to allow reliable measurements.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Declining participation in the study.
* Being younger than 6 years or older than 14 years.
* Presence of cavitated carious lesions (ICDAS ≥ 3) or teeth with Class II or Class III carious involvement.
* Prior restorative treatment or the presence of fissure sealants on the relevant occlusal surface, which would compromise accurate optical assessment.
* Tooth surfaces with excessive plaque accumulation that would hinder proper evaluation.