LASER DOPPLER FLOWMETRY IN PERMANENT TEETH

Laser Doppler Flowmetry (LDF) is a modern, non-invasive method used for examination of blood perfusion and microcirculation in dental pulp and gingiva, especially after trauma. Purpose: The objective of this study is to determine in vivo the mean values of perfusion units in intact permanent teeth by LDF. Material and methods: LDF was performed on symmetrical permanent teeth of both jaws. The study included 60 patients below 25 years of age, divided into two groups: first - with mixed dentition (7-9 years of age); second - with permanent dentition (18-25 years of age). Measurements were performed using the system moorVMS LDF2. Results: The mean results of the LDF in maxilla are central (group 1-10.08 +/- 3.08 PU; group 2 -7.16 +/- 3.08 PU) and lateral (group1 - 11.62 +/- 3.34 PU; group2 - 4.8 +/- 1.65 PU) incisor, canine (6.76 +/- 2.55 PU), first (6.98 +/- 2.7 PU) and second (4.5 +/- 1.85 PU) premolars, respective in mandible: central (group 1- 8.6 +/- 1.28 PU; group 2 -9.61 +/- 5.28 PU) and lateral incisor (group 1 - 9.82 +/- 1.77 PU; group 2 - 8.13 +/- 5.75 PU), canine (6.31 +/- 3.73 PU), first (8.06 +/- 3.93 PU) and second (5.5 +/- 3.17 PU) premolars. Conclusion: In order to detect changes in pulpal blood flow after trauma, it is recommended to use the contralateral tooth for comparison.