Development of Terahertz Pulse Imaging Technology and Its Application to Adhesive Dental Restoration

2022 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 18K09571
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 57030:Conservative dentistry-related
• Research Institution: The University of Tokushima (2021-2022); Tokyo Medical and Dental University (2018-2020)
• Principal Investigator: HOSAKA Keiichi 徳島大学, 大学院医歯薬学研究部(歯学域), 教授 (80451946)
• Co-Investigator(Kenkyū-buntansha): 中島 正俊 東京医科歯科大学, 歯学部附属病院, 講師 (50272604) ; 林 樹莉 東京医科歯科大学, 歯学部, 非常勤講師 (60803187)
• Project Period (FY): 2018-04-01 – 2023-03-31
• Keywords: 歯質接着 / 非破壊イメージング / テラヘルツパルス / コンポジットレジン / 低侵襲接着治療

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Recent advancements in non-destructive imaging technologies have improved understanding of dental bonding mechanisms and early caries diagnosis. With caries being globally prevalent, this study focuses on advancing minimally invasive adhesive restorative dental treatments. We have uncovered new insights into the interaction between dental adhesives and hydroxyapatite, and tooth surface deproteinization. Further, we optimized Terahertz Pulse Time-Domain Spectroscopy (THZ-TDS), enhancing imaging precision for the adhesive restorative treatments. Using optimized THZ-TDS, we have non-destructively examined dental defects and inside restorations. These findings, presented at the 7th International Adhesive Dentistry Conference, suggest potential for novel diagnostics, efficiency in restorative treatments, and enhanced longevity of adhesive restorative procedures.

Free Research Field

歯科保存学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

本研究の成果により、非放射線歯科画像技術である，テラヘルツ（THz）パルスイメージング技術を活用し、初期齲蝕の早期検出や接着修復物の非破壊診断の可能性が明らかになった。歯質とレジンコンポジットの接着界面を探求することで接着歯科治療に対する理解を深める新たな道を開いた。このことは，歯科医師が接着接合面の完全性を侵襲的手段に頼らずに評価できるようになることを意味し、歯科治療のアウトカムの改善と患者ケアの水準の向上が見込まれ、歯科治療の質と患者の生活の質の向上に貢献する可能性が示唆される。