What effect does laser diagnosis of carious lesions primarily employ?

Laser diagnosis of carious lesions primarily employs fluorescence due to the unique properties of certain wavelengths of laser light interacting with dental tissues. When a laser beam is directed at a tooth, it can stimulate fluorescence in areas affected by caries. The healthy enamel and dentin do not emit fluorescence in the same manner as demineralized or carious tissue. This difference allows practitioners to distinguish between healthy and affected areas more accurately.

Fluorescence provides a non-invasive method for detecting carious lesions early, which is essential for effective treatment planning and can lead to better patient outcomes. By utilizing fluorescence, dental professionals can use lasers not just for treatment but also for diagnostic purposes, enhancing the overall understanding of dental health and aiding in preventive measures.

In contrast, other methods like transmission, spectroscopy, and reflection may not provide the same level of specificity or detail for identifying the presence and extent of carious lesions, making fluorescence the preferred technique in this context.