The use of infrared thermography in dentistry has been minimal, principally due to technological inadequacies of previous thermal imaging systems. However, with the ever-developing advancement in technology, current systems are capable of producing real-time, highly sensitive digitized thermal images. This development has led to an increased use of infrared imaging within both medical and dental research. The present paper describes these techniques and their previous applications within dentistry, and, through the use of a pilot study, highlights possible future applications in the assessment of craniomandibular disorders.
Electronic infrared thermography is an imaging modality for the accurate quantification of surface temperature. It has been used in medicine since the 1960s but its use in dentistry has been limited. Its use in dentistry could, however, be very useful, for example in objectively quantifying post-surgical inflammation and studying the effects of treatment with agents such as analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs.
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