Intra-oral camera

Introduced in dentists’ offices in the late 1980s, the intra-oral camera is now used on a regular basis in many dental clinics. It is the size of a pen, has a tiny lens of only a few millimetres and is equipped with very bright LED lights.

Providing 40 to 60 times magnification, it is connected to the dentist’s computer and to a screen on which the patient can see, in real time, images of his teeth and gums.

The intra-oral camera, in addition to helping the dentist make an accurate diagnosis and archive the patient’s information, thus ensuring adequate follow-up, allows the detection of several details or defects that are difficult to see with the naked eye, including :

The deterioration (corrosion) of certain fillings (fillings);
The presence of cracks on the teeth or around amalgam fillings;
Abrasion or abnormal wear of teeth related to bruxism (teeth grinding);
Cavities in the early stages, although a tactile examination should confirm the diagnosis;
Soft tissue abnormalities;
Defects or problems related to crowns, bridges and implants that are located in hard-to-reach areas.

Advantages

The instrument is soft to the touch and non-intrusive;
The intra-oral camera provides an instant, clear, magnified view of the current condition of the patient’s mouth;
It allows the patient to participate in an informed way in making decisions about their oral problems and treatment options;
It allows the patient’s condition to be tracked over time by comparing the changes in teeth, gums and tongue in the photos kept in the patient’s file;
Adding photo documentation can often speed up the processing of insurance claims;
For children, a picture of their teeth is invaluable in explaining what plaque is and teaching them good oral hygiene habits.

Disadvantages

The intra-oral camera is not a substitute for x-rays or conventional examination;
The intra-oral camera alone does not make a diagnosis, but it does help to improve the diagnosis when combined with other technologies such as radiography.

Processing steps and times

During the examination, the dentist and his staff use the intra-oral camera to examine the inside of the patient’s mouth;
The patient sees in real time the state of his teeth and mouth in general and interacts with his dentist for an optimal understanding of his oral condition;
The photos taken by the camera will be kept in the patient’s file and can be consulted later to ensure better follow-up if necessary.

Cost

There are no additional costs associated with the use of the intra-oral camera.

Restrictions

None.

Alternative solutions

X-rays;
Conventional examination.