Clinical evaluation of fluorescence of natural teeth

Objectives: To analyze the fluorescence of natural teeth and its relation with age. Methods: 40 volunteers were selected in view of pre-established criteria and divided in 4 groups according to their age (n=10): Group 1; from 06 to 14 years; Group 2; from 15 to 29 years; Group 3; from 30 to 44 years and Group 4; from 45 to 59 years. Spectral reflectance and color coordinates were measured according to the Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) CIELAB color scale relative to the standard illuminant D65. The measurement geometry used was D/8°, with 10° diffuse illumination, 360 to 740nm wavelengths, specular component excluded and ultraviolet light excluded or included. Fluorescence was calculated from the subtraction of the reflectance values by the inclusion and exclusion of the ultraviolet component. Results: The fluorescence intensity was not influenced by the age (p>0.05). Even tough group 1 presented luminosity values statistically higher (p=0.005), no relation was observed between teeth color and intensity of fluorescent emission. Conclusions: When measured in a clinical environment, the fluorescence of natural teeth was not related with patients' age.