Dynamics of and diagnostic methods for detecting small carious lesions.

This paper reviews and discusses the dynamics of carious lesions and diagnostic methods for their detection. Summary data are presented on progression rates of differing lesion types with differing initial severity. Among the non-invasive techniques, fibre-optic transillumination, used appropriately, gives the most accurate estimate of posterior approximal dentinal caries. Electrical resistance methods are likely to provide a significant contribution to the diagnosis of occlusal caries in the future. Radiographs remain an important component of the diagnostic armamentarium and may be enhanced by the introduction of direct digital imaging. Problems in appropriate validation must be addressed to ensure that new techniques are correctly evaluated.