Three-dimensional image of the human tooth based on optical coherence tomography

Abstract

A method of acquiring clear three-dimensional image of human tooth in vitro, which is based on optical coherence tomography, is described. The background noise of the cross-section image is eliminated by image preprocessing algorithms, then the three-dimensional image is reconstructed by ray-casting algorithm and gives the whole view of dental crown which contains dentin and enamel. A plane can be used to cut the tooth interactively to observe the inner tissue. This image is convenient for doctors to locate lesions and has a great potential for the clinical diagnosis of early dental caries.