Study of Tooth Color and Structure in Children and Adults with Specific Enamel Defects Using Spectrophotometer and Laboratory Analyses

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying enamel defects that include hypomineralization and hypoplasia, focusing on three common dental conditions Molar Incisor Hypomineralization MIH, dental fluorosis, and amelogenesis imperfecta. The study aims to evaluate the use of a spectrophotometer, the Zfx SpectroShade, to measure tooth color as a non-invasive tool for early diagnosis of these enamel abnormalities. Additionally, biological, structural, and physicochemical characteristics of these enamel pathologies will be analyzed from extracted teeth or enamel biopsies. The study involves two main visits. At the first visit, participants undergo a screening consultation where photographs and spectrophotometer images of at least two teeth are taken. At a follow-up visit within two months, patients requiring dental treatment will have selected teeth extracted or restored, allowing collection of samples for detailed laboratory analysis. These analyses include protein studies, electron microscopy, and various spectroscopic and elemental techniques performed at specialized laboratories. Participants will be monitored with careful documentation and follow-up, including consent and non-opposition forms, especially for minors. Researchers will analyze color parameters of affected teeth using the spectrophotometer and compare these across different enamel disorders. The study also collects extensive data on the biological and physical makeup of enamel abnormalities to support accurate diagnosis and characterization. Samples will be stored securely for up to ten years for possible future research. The total participation involves initial imaging and a follow-up dental procedure within two months.

Colorimetric, Ultra-structural and Elemental Comparison of Dental Enamel Defects