Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 6 and up

Using optical coherence tomography to evaluate dental treatments

Official title: Evaluation of Optical Coherence Tomography in Dentistry

Run by University of Heidelberg Medical Center · NCT03753256 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new imaging technology to see if it can help improve dental treatments with sealants for braces and monitor their effects on tooth health over time.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages6 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment20 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Heidelberg Medical Center
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Heidelberg)
StatusRecruiting
StartedDecember 4, 2017
Main results expectedAugust 2019
Study endsDecember 2027
Registry record updatedNovember 28, 2018
Trial IDNCT03753256 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are individuals requiring orthodontic treatment who can provide informed consent.

Probably not a fit

Patients who have withdrawn consent or do not require orthodontic treatment may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial evaluates the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) in dentistry to assess the effectiveness of orthodontic surface sealants. It consists of two trials: the first focuses on monitoring the thickness of various sealants and the development of enamel demineralization over a year, while the second examines inflammatory cytokine levels in gingival crevicular fluid after sealant application. Participants will be randomly assigned to different treatment groups, and their dental health will be closely monitored at multiple time points. This innovative approach aims to enhance dental diagnostics and treatment outcomes.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved methods for monitoring dental treatments and preventing tooth demineralization.

How similar studies have gone: While OCT has been established in ophthalmology, its application in dentistry is relatively novel, and this study aims to explore its potential benefits.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Orthodontic treatment need
* Informed consent from all patients and their parents or legal guardians after explaining of the study

Exclusion Criteria:

• withdrawn consent

Where it's running

  • Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics, University of Heidelberg
    Heidelberg, Germany
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.