QLF and Digital Imaging for Caries Activity Assessment After Orthodontic Treatment

This prospective longitudinal observational study will evaluate the agreement and diagnostic performance of Smartphone photography, intraoral 3D imaging, Quantitative Light-Induced Fluorescence Digital (QLF-D), and ICDAS clinical criteria for assessing non-cavitated caries lesion activity in post-orthodontic patients.

Participants presenting active initial caries lesions on vestibular tooth surfaces will undergo clinical examinations, QLF-D imaging, smartphone photographs, and intraoral 3D scans at baseline and during a three-month preventive follow-up program. Professional prophylaxis and oral hygiene reinforcement will be performed throughout the study period.

Changes in clinical lesion activity, fluorescence parameters, and topographic characteristics will be analyzed to determine the monitoring capacity, agreement, and diagnostic performance of the evaluated methods. Patient acceptance of the diagnostic technologies will also be assessed.

Inclusion criteria

• Participants aged 11 to 46 years
• Completed fixed orthodontic treatment
• Presence of at least four active non-cavitated caries lesions (ICDAS 1-3)
• Lesions located on vestibular surfaces of anterior teeth and/or premolars
• Ability to attend follow-up visits during the three-month study period
• Signed informed consent and/or assent form

Exclusion criteria

• Systemic conditions affecting salivary flow or enamel structure
• Extensive cavitated lesions requiring restorative treatment
• Ongoing orthodontic treatment
• Use of medications that significantly affect oral conditions
• Inability to cooperate with imaging procedures or follow-up visits