Cross-polarized photography in the study of enamel defects in dental paediatrics.

An investigative trial was set up to determine the efficacy and practicality of using cross-polarized photography in the assessment of enamel defects. Twenty patients were photographed using this technique. The photography was assessed by ten clinicians, each of whom completed a questionnaire. Two calibrated examiners using the DDE Epidemiology and Screening Indices also undertook assessment. The results show overwhelming evidence to support the use of cross-polarization, with significant increase in agreement between the assessors, than that which could be obtained by conventional photography. It also enhanced the visual detail of enamel defects enabling changes in the appearance to be assessed by the DDE Indices.