Intraoral Cameras

Intraoral cameras are changing the face of routine dental appointments. The intraoral camera gives the patient a unique view of each tooth - enabling them to understand their dental problems and make informed treatment decisions.

The intraoral camera is connected to a computing unit at the side of the dental chair. A pen-sized wand is used into the mouth, and a magnified photo of the mouth problem is created, allowing the dentist and patient to see what is going on. 

How can the intraoral camera help?

Utilizing intraoral cameras is a completely comfortable process for patients, and provides an honest assessment of the teeth. Here are some of an intraoral camera’s main uses:

• Dental education – Education and preventive care are highly important in dentistry. The intraoral camera can expose areas where home hygiene may be deficient.
  
  
• Exposing hidden problems – Conditions like gum disease and oral cancer may display easy-to-miss symptoms in their earliest stages. The magnification of the intraoral camera can more clearly visualize these issues to the dentist and the patient.

• Treatment planning – No matter how well a dentist might describe a condition, it is easier to understand the issue if it can be seen. Seeing tooth decay and problem teeth helps patients understand why certain treatments are recommended for maximum health benefit and aesthetics.
   
  
  
• Referrals to specialists – On occasion, a patient may need to be referred to a specialist for complex treatment. And sometimes it may be important for the specialist to view clear images of the teeth in advance, using the photos of the intraoral camera.
  
  

How will the intraoral camera be used?

The intraoral camera is the size and shape of a pen. It is covered with a disposable sheath, to ensure that no germs are transmitted from patient-to-patient. The slim wand is used in the mouth and rotated until clear pictures of every tooth can be recorded. The images are transmitted onto a television screen. The images of individual teeth can be magnified to allow the dentist to explain and explore any noticeable problems. One of the biggest advantages of the intraoral camera is it does not expose patients to radiation. The intraoral camera is one of the most useful and versatile diagnostic tools available.

If you have any questions or concerns about the intraoral camera, please contact your dentist.