QLF Dental Care+

What it does

QLF Dental Care+ helps users detect early signs of tooth decay, tartar, and inflammation at home using QLF technology and AI-driven diagnosis via a connected app. It offers personalized care guidance, tooth mapping, and data sharing with clinics.

Your inspiration

It started with the fact that many people were going to the dentist too late. The online community was already full of cases after the pain got worse, and many users found the problem in that they didn't have the means to recognize their oral condition early. Prevention-oriented oral care was practically difficult, especially for the elderly, the disabled, and those in medical blind spots. We felt that anyone needed a tool to recognize their dental condition on their own and respond early, and we wanted to address it with visualization technology and data-driven systems.

How it works

The device uses QLF (Quantitative Light-induced Fluorescence) imaging to detect changes in the tooth surface caused by plaque, caries, and other issues. By analyzing fluorescence patterns, it visually reveals early-stage problems invisible to the naked eye. The data is transmitted in real-time to a connected mobile app, which maps the results onto a 3D dental model. The AI engine interprets the scan and provides feedback, care schedules, and AR brushing guidance. Users can track progress, get weekly summaries, and share data with dental clinics for remote consultation. Additional features like voice assistance, family profiles, and community tips make it accessible and comprehensive.

Design process

Initially, the problem was defined based on user interviews and surveys of awareness of oral care. After that, we made a prototype with QLF optical structure, UV LED array, and scanner module by reflecting feedback from the faculty of the Industrial Design and Engineering College. The initial mockup was made with 3D printing of PLA and ABS materials, and OLED display and circuit configuration were implemented based on PCB module. The app produced UX draft with Figma, conducted usability testing, and implemented diagnostic report/voice control/AR toothbrushing guidance in stages. The first prototype was limited in scan speed and accuracy, so the second version improved precision by adjusting the sensor position and lighting angle. Currently, the actual production is in progress.

How it is different

Unlike existing dental tools that rely on professional use, QLF Dental Care+ empowers non-specialist users to self-diagnose and monitor their oral health at home. Existing toothbrush cameras or dental apps focus on image capture or reminders, but lack real-time diagnosis or intelligent mapping. Our system combines a specialized QLF optical system with a smart app that includes AI diagnosis, interactive feedback, and community-based support. It also enables data sharing with dentists—bridging the gap between home care and clinics. The modular hardware design and multi-profile family system add flexibility, while voice control enhances accessibility for visually impaired users.

Future plans

Currently, this product is receiving support for prototyping through the selection of excellent works by professors in the Department of Industrial Design, and is working on a real prototype. After that, we will complete the battery-integrated hardware and conduct demonstration tests in connection with local clinics and schools. At the same time, we will also improve the app UX and advance AI diagnosis algorithms considering the elderly and the visually impaired. Ultimately, we plan to expand to a global medical oral solution centered on prevention of life.

Awards

2025 U.S. Spark Design Awards International Design Awards (2025.07) - Acceptance and Finalist Advancement 2025 K-Design Awards *International Design Awards (2025.07) - Acceptance and Finalist Advancement 2025 Next Generation Display ND-COSS Awards (2025.07) - Acceptance and Finalists, Finalists selected within 4th place