Intraoral cameras are transforming routine dental appointments by giving patients a clear view of each tooth, helping them understand diagnoses and make informed treatment decisions.
The camera is connected to a computing unit beside the dental chair. A pen-sized wand is inserted into the mouth, creating a video of the oral cavity. This video can be magnified more than 30x to show every detail of the teeth in full color.
How can the intraoral camera help?
- Dental education: Reveals areas where home care may be lacking so issues can be addressed before more complex treatments are needed.
- Exposing hidden problems: Highlights early signs of gum disease, oral cancer, and other conditions that may be difficult to detect.
- Treatment planning: Allows patients to see decay or damaged teeth, making treatment recommendations easier to understand.
- Assessing progress: Tracks treatment results and allows adjustments when necessary.
- Eliminating uncertainty: Provides visual proof of dental issues, helping patients feel confident in treatment decisions.
- Referrals to specialists: Supplies clear images that assist specialists and reduce consultation time and costs.
How is the intraoral camera used?
The device is the size of a pen and covered with a disposable sheath for hygiene. The wand is gently moved inside the mouth to capture images of each tooth, which are displayed on a screen. The video can be paused and individual images magnified for detailed explanation. Unlike x-rays, the intraoral camera does not expose patients to radiation, making it one of the safest and most versatile diagnostic tools in dentistry.