The intraoral camera is a handheld device which hygienists place in the patients’ mouths in order to get a clear, close-up image. The camera comes with its own LED and produces a high-resolution image on our in-office monitors. Since the camera is housed in a wand-like case, it can be moved to provide a view of the mouth from every angle, including those which are normally obscured by lack of light when seen with a handheld mirror.
The monitors in our office are arranged so that both the patient and the hygienist are able to see the images produced by the camera. These allow hygienists to point out caries and plaque build-up so that patients will know where they need to brush, and where Dr. Elazegui may have to do work. The images can also be kept on-file to keep track of long-term changes in the patient’s mouth, which is useful for patients who need to provide evidence to insurance companies of the necessity for greater interventions. Patients themselves also tend to be more accepting of treatment plans when they can see for themselves why we are recommending certain procedures.
Intraoral cameras only show the surface of the mouth; they are meant to complement other diagnostic tools, such as x-rays, which may not be as easy for a lay person to interpret. However, they not only allow a patient to feel confident in the treatment plans they choose for themselves, they also allow parents and caregivers to have greater confidence when making choices for their dependents.
For more information or to make an appointment, please contact us at 408-719-8295 or visit us at www.edentalcare.net
