Intraoral Cameras in Modern Dental Care

Intraoral cameras are meant to capture images from within a patient’s mouth. They are highly useful digital instruments for dentists around the world. Not only are these cameras useful for patient education, but are also very helpful for simplifying case documentation. There is no need for external lighting here, in most cases.

Helpful in detecting problems with old dental fillings

There are often cases in which dentists suddenly find large fracture lines while removing old fillings. Such fracture lines may require root canal therapy and crowns at a later stage. Pictures of class II restorations taken through radiographs may reveal such lines as only spots, or stains. This is definitely one of the reasons why a dentist must buy intraoral camera. Not only will its use validate a professional’s prowess as a dentist, but will also be effective towards establishing trust.

Patients understand what they see

It may not always be possible for patients to understand the oral treatment they are being subjected to. A major advantage of this technique is that they will certainly be able to believe what they see.

Many of the intraoral cameras come with LCD screens, allowing dentists and patients to look in real-time. Several such cameras also come with features to capture extraoral images, which may be necessary for patient records.

Intraoral cameras have become very affordable

Much like computers, the first intraoral cameras were cumbersome and highly expensive for their time. They also needed to be stored in a large space. Today’s versions are much smaller, roughly the size of a handpiece, and are lightweight. The devices have also become much cheaper than what they were. The unwieldy docking station has been replaced with USB connectivity. It is more comfortable and can also click higher quality pictures than the earlier ones. In fact, with the systems being easy to use now, very little training is needed for successful operation.
Various features

One can buy intraoral cameras at different budgets, based on the nature of requirements. As a result, their features also vary from one model to another. The list of available features includes the following:

Curing light for composite
LED lights
Video or picture record
Macro mode for magnification
Fluorescence, which helps detect various stages of gingival inflammation, plaque, caries

Rise of tech and innovation in dentistry

Clinical practices have always been highly specialized fields, for which medical professionals have to go through many years of medicinal education. Dentistry is one such practice, and though it did not rely very much on technology earlier, things have changed over the years. Manual tools have made way for technology in diagnosis, and thereby diagnostics has been affected most.

Some of the ways in which tech innovations have shaped dentistry practices are as follows:

1.Innovative LED headlamps- Earlier dentists needed to wear dentist loupes to illuminate the cavity for diagnosis. Such loupes have made way for flashy LED headlamps these days. The professionals are able to zoom in to the problem areas with greater details through these cameras.

2.Digital oral health records- Paper-based records have been seen in dental clinics over the years. The dental clinic today has an enhanced workflow as a result of electronic patient profiles. Also, if treatment details have to be checked quickly for process insurance claims, it can be done in a hassle-free manner.

3.Intraoral cameras- Sophisticated cameras with modern technology are needed to capture accurate oral details of a patient. Camera imagery is so powerful that patients automatically get to see how they have benefited from treatment.

Getting rid of fear

Most people tend to postpone dental appointments as much as possible, largely as a result of the fear of sitting in the dentist chair. Along with the pain, they also may be afraid of the impending costs. While on that chair, many tools are put into the mouth at awkward angles, making several individuals uncomfortable. However, several technological advancements in this field have helped patients feel better over the years.

Compatible with several imaging programs

One can usually capture images on this camera by clicking a single button. Further, this has to be connected with imaging software for viewing the images on computers or laptops. Although it will be possible to check, most of the cameras from reputed companies work on all imaging software. Also, by virtue of the device being light and ergonomic, the dentist can capture several images over the day.

No need for IT support

There are chances that dentists may find it difficult to order these products for fear of troubleshooting them. Any product package or website will have details of technical support numbers in case of problems. Installation is as easy as ABC.

There are reputed websites from which a dentist can buy intraoral cameras and other equipment. For overall efficiency, remember to purchase from such websites.