ASTM International

Standard Test Method for Objective Quantification of Dental Plaque Using Digital Still Cameras
 N E2670

Annotation

This method covers the procedure, instrumental requirements, standardization procedures, material standards, measurement procedures, and parameters necessary to make precise measurements of dental plaque on the teeth revealed by fluorescence. In particular it is meant to measure the amount of plaque and plaque coverage on human teeth.

Digital images are used to measure the coverage of dental plaque on the teeth using discrimination analysis. All localized discoloration, such as stains, inclusions, pigmentations, etc., may be separated from the measurement and the analysis. All other non-relevant parts, such as teeth, tongue, spaces, dental restorations or prostheses, etc., must be separated from the measurement and the analysis.

NOTE 1—This procedure may not be applicable for all types of dental work.

The broadband reflectance factors of the teeth and surrounding tissue are measured. The colorimetric measurement is performed using an illuminator system that provides controlled illumination on the teeth and surrounding tissue. A Digital Still Camera (DSC) is used to capture the digital image.

Data acquired using this method may be used to assess personal plaque coverage for the purposes of identifying overall health status, health status at specific sites in the mouth, or to track changes in personal health status for individuals over time. Pooled data may be used to assess plaque coverage, health, disease among populations in epidemiological surveys, evaluation of comparative product efficacy, or safety and treatment response in clinical trials involving plaque coverage or disease.

The apparatus, measurement procedure, and analysis technique described herein are generic. The intent is not to exclude a specific apparatus, measurement procedure, or analysis technique.