Did you know that evidence of dentistry dates back to the Paleolithic era? A team comprised of Italian and German researchers found that a 14,000-year-old molar had markings from pointed stone tools, which were presumably used to chip away the decayed part of the tooth. Considering the lack of anesthetics at the time, it’s safe to say that it was an unpleasant and potentially traumatic experience. Fortunately, patients benefit from centuries of advancements in dentistry, innovations in technology, and modern techniques that make dental visits today effective, quick, and pain-free! One piece of state-of-the-art technology that has recently gained a lot of attention is the intraoral camera. Read on for what it is and how it can benefit your oral health!
What Is an Intraoral Camera?
Essentially, intraoral cameras are small, digital cameras that dentists use to capture images of hard-to-reach areas of the mouth. By snapping enlarged, detailed pictures of your teeth, gums, and tissue, your dentist can detect issues that initially would go unseen by the naked eye. Plus, its small, concise shape allows your dentist to conduct this thorough examination while you comfortably relax in the treatment chair!
5 Benefits of Using an Intraoral Camera
Besides the obvious advantage of providing patients with an enhanced dental exam, using an intraoral camera can:
- Lead to early detection of oral health problems – To protect patients from time-consuming, costly, and invasive procedures, early detection is key. Decades prior, dentists would rely on a visual inspection and X-rays to spot dental issues. While these measures continue to play a crucial role in coming to a diagnosis, dental teams today can use intraoral cameras to detect dental problems in the first stages.
- Enhance patient understanding – Before the introduction of intraoral cameras, patients would have to take their dentist’s word when it came to what treatment was necessary. Unfortunately, this put strain on the patient-doctor relationship since patients couldn’t see the issue themselves. Fortunately, this handy piece of technology allows patients to see first-hand what their dentist sees!
- Improve accuracy of advised treatment – Between its rotating camera, LED lights, and strong magnification abilities, intraoral cameras allow dentists to get up close and personal with their patient’s teeth. The good news is that this detailed look at the difficult-to-reach areas of the mouth can lead to a more accurate diagnosis.
- Allow for thorough dental documentation – X-rays and detailed notes provide your dentist with the ability to view your dental history throughout the years. With intraoral cameras, a more precise record can be kept to monitor your progress and treatment.
- Result in better insurance coverage – To get the most out of your benefits, your provider needs to understand the magnitude of the problem and the level of treatment required. With intraoral cameras, your dentist can provide them with a clear picture that wasn’t available before!
To ensure your oral health remains in pristine condition, it is important to visit your dentist bi-yearly for regular appointments. Fortunately, innovations in technology have taken preventive care to the next level so you can get the treatment you need when issues first arise!
About the Practice
At Advanced Smile Design, patients can enjoy a comprehensive array of services, quality dentistry, and world-class care all at their conveniently located office. Backed by their talented staff, Dr. Krunal Patel and Dr. Barry Isdaner use their decades of experience and genuine passion for their craft to help their patients with everything from routine cleanings and dental implants to root canal therapy and smile upgrades. If you would like additional information on the advanced technology they use at their practice, visit their website or give them a call at 215-659-3334.
