Analysis of Auto-Fluorescence Distribution on Teeth Surface Based on Finite Element Method

Based on solution of diffusion equation using finite element numerical method, the excitation light intensity field inside the teeth tissue and the auto-fluorescence distribution on the surface of simplified 3D teeth model excited by uniform light are both presented. The influence of optical parameters such as scattering coefficient, anisotropy coefficient etc. on the fluorescence distribution of teeth surface is analyzed quantitatively. The results indicate that the fluorescence intensity increases with the increment of scattering coefficient of dental enamel and dentine, while decreases with the increment of anisotropy coefficient. Based on the definition of optical parameters, the possible reason is given. The results provide a possible method using fluorescence intensity to detect the early dental caries. Finally, the solution of diffusion equation based on finite element method is verified by Monte Carlo random simulation.