Whether intraoral or extraoral, dental photography is a great way to document clinical situations, communicate with patients and enhance insurance submissions. Digital cameras have just about completely replaced film for operatory photography because these cameras provide instant images, easy storage and integration with a range of imaging and practice management software applications. If your practice doesn’t already use a digital camera to document cases, now is the time to find the intraoral or extraoral device that best meets your needs.
What Types of Dental Cameras are Available?
While a smartphone might be capable of capturing high quality images, dental photography—both in and out of the patient’s mouth—is best captured with a specialized camera. Today
intraoral cameras are the most common tools for clinical documentation. Shaped like a wand, these digital camera systems are capable of capturing high-definition images from inside a patient’s mouth. They are a great tool for not only examining and diagnosing a clinical situation, but also for showing the patient exactly what you see while examining his or her oral health.
While many intraoral cameras are capable of capturing extraoral images such as a headshot for use with the patient record, specialized
extraoral photography systems are the best choice for documenting cosmetic procedures and capturing images outside of a patient’s mouth. Some of these systems are designed specifically for dental use, while others are kits based around DSLR cameras paired with macro photography accessories such as
ring flashes. If you already own a DSLR, you can purchase these accessories to turn it into a high quality clinical camera.
How Do I Choose the Best Camera for My Dental Practice?
The first consideration when looking to add a digital camera to your practice will be how you intend to use it. If you will be shooting intraoral images, or using the camera for diagnostics and patient education, then you will want an intraoral camera. If you are looking to document your cosmetic work and to capture before and after shots of your patients, an extraoral camera is more likely to meet your needs.
Other considerations when adding a digital camera to your practice include the comfort of using the system, what other hardware or software will you need to get the most out of the camera, and how the system will integrate with the technology and software already in use in your practice. As with any technology investment, be sure to inquire about the warranty and service provided with the camera you intend to purchase.
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