The Effectiveness of iTero Element 5D NIRI System in Early Proximal Caries Detection in Permanent Teeth

The patients underwent intraoral scanning using an iTero Element 5D imaging system (Align Technology, San Jose, CA, USA). This imaging system uses near-infrared light with a wavelength of 850 nm and provides multiple layers of data in a single scan, including a three-dimensional (3D) model, two-dimensional (2D) color images, and NIRI mapped to the 3D model

Under illumination in the dental unit, a UVE of the proximal surfaces of the patient's entire dentition was conducted by clinicians using a mouth mirror, dental probe, and an air-water syringe. Visual and tactile methods were performed according to the guidelines of the American Dental Association. Clinicians assessed the soundness of the proximal surfaces based on the presence of discoloration, surface alterations, or cavitation.

All enrolled patients underwent CBCT scans because clear aligner treatment required real root/bone visualization features. We would like to clarify that due to the retrospective cross-sectional nature of this study, the patients involved were not subjected to radiation beyond what was initially necessary for their orthodontic treatment.