Evaluating a new imaging system for detecting early tooth decay

Comparison of Near-infrared Imaging With Cone Beam Computed Tomography for Proximal Caries Detection in Permanent Dentition: An in Vivo Study.

West China College of Stomatology · NCT06276959

This study is testing a new imaging system to see if it can better detect early tooth decay in people aged 12 and older compared to traditional imaging methods.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages12 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorWest China College of Stomatology (other)
Locations1 site (Chengdu, Sichuan)
Trial IDNCT06276959 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the effectiveness of the iTero Element 5D NIRI system in detecting early proximal caries in permanent teeth. It will compare the results of near-infrared imaging with those obtained from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) using large-scale clinical data from retrospective cross-sectional studies. Participants aged 12 and older who have undergone both imaging techniques will be included to validate the efficiency of this new diagnostic technology.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 12 and older with permanent teeth who have shown signs of proximal caries through both iTero Element 5D scanning and CBCT imaging.

Not a fit: Patients with third molars, significant tooth structure loss, or existing restorations may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved early detection of dental caries, allowing for timely and less invasive treatment options for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of near-infrared imaging is emerging, this specific comparison with CBCT for caries detection is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Permanent dentition
* Participants aged 12 and above
* Patients who have undergone iTero Element 5D oral scanning, as well as CBCT imaging, intraoral photography, and clinical oral examination within 1 week
* CBCT or iTero Element 5D oral scanning indicating proximal caries

Exclusion Criteria:

The following teeth were excluded:

* Third molars
* Teeth with gross loss of tooth structure (cavitated carious lesions extending to the occlusal or buccal/lingual surfaces)
* Teeth with amalgam fillings and their adjacent teeth
* Teeth with crown restorations and their adjacent teeth

Where this trial is running

Chengdu, Sichuan

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Dental Caries

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.