A team of scientists from the University of Liverpool has won an award for developing a device that can identify early tooth decay and plaque before it is visible to the human eye.

iDENTifi comprises a clinical digital camera which incorporates Qualitative Light Induced Fluorescence (QLF) technology to take images of the mouth using blue light and special filters which can show up cavities and plaque. The images can then be transferred using wireless technology to a computer, laptop, iPad or smart phone for immediate assessment and evaluation by a dental professional.

iDENTifi has been developed by a team from the University of Liverpool in collaboration with dental healthcare developers Inspektor Research Systems BV. The original concept for the device began over a decade ago when the Liverpool team wished to incorporate QLF technology into clinical SLR cameras.

The tool shows up early stage plaque, tiny cavities, secondary cavities and cavities which can occur on the occlusal surfaces of the teeth. The device can identify more mature and potentially damaging plaque without the need for current methods using dyes or disclosing agents. It has the potential to improve preventive dental strategies and could change patients' dental care and dietary behaviour. iDENTifi will be of particular benefit to orthodontic patients to highlight plaque left behind after cleaning.

'Winning a prestigious Medical Futures Award proves that iDENTifi has real commercial and market potential,' said Professor Sue Higham, from the Department of Health Services Research and School of Dentistry. 'This will give us access to business expertise and networks which will help iDENTifi secure the recognition and investment needed to become a viable dental healthcare product.'

iDENTifi will continue to be used in clinical trials and a launch is anticipated in summer 2012.