The Assessment of Enamel Demineralization Using Computerized Colour Image Analysis

  • Miss Emily Lam, University of Otago, New Zealand
  • Mr Andrew Quick, University of Otago, New Zealand
  • Professor Bernadette Drummond, University of Otago, New Zealand
  • Professor Jules Kieser, University of Otago, New Zealand

Objectives: To investigate the use of computerized colour image analysis to measure the amount of demineralization on the labial surfaces of the maxillary incisors.
Methods: 48 teeth were measured from twelve individuals with apparent demineralization on the labial surfaces of their maxillary incisors. These twelve participants were reviewed at five separate visits over eight weeks. Their teeth were photographed and analyzed in Adobe Photoshop utilizing colour histogram technology. A ceramic shade tool was used as the standard and ratios were calculated within each individual utilizing a sound area of enamel.
Results: The blue channel in the colour histogram analysis was able to detect between sound enamel, demineralized enamel and the ceramic shade tab.
Conclusion: Computerized colour image analysis to measure demineralization is a useful and reproducible tool that allows accurate diagnosis of demineralization.