Relationship between fluorescence loss of QLF and depth of demineralization in an enamel erosion model.

The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF) values and demineralization depths in an enamel erosion model in vitro. Flat labial enamel surfaces of bovine incisors were ground with 800-grit SiC and coated with nail varnish, but also leaving rectangular windows of enamel uncoated. Subsequently, they were immersed in a lactic acid gel (pH 5.0) for 0 to 7 weeks to make an enamel erosion model. Carious lesions thus induced were analyzed by QLF and the demineralization depths measured using SEM/ EDS method at the end of each period. A wide range of erosive lesions were produced with a steady increase in both demineralizing depth and fluorescence loss (DeltaF) over time. With this model, a good correlation was exhibited between each DeltaF value and the demineralization depth. Results of this study indicated that QLF could detect and quantify mineral loss under the eroded surface of the enamel erosion model.