DYNAMICS OF AND DIAGNOSTIC METHODS FOR DETECTING SMALL CARIOUS LESIONS

This paper reviews and discusses the dynamics of carious lesions and d iagnostic methods for their detection. Summary data are presented on p rogression rates of differing lesion types with differing initial seve rity. Among the non-invasive techniques, fibre-optic transillumination , used appropriately, gives the most accurate estimate of posterior ap proximal dentinal caries. Electrical resistance methods are likely to provide a significant contribution to the diagnosis of occlusal caries in the future. Radiographs remain an important component of the diagn ostic armamentarium and may be enhanced by the introduction of direct digital imaging. Problems in appropriate validation must be addressed to ensure that new techniques are correctly evaluated.