What are intraoral cameras?
An intraoral camera is a video camera that is small in size and is used to take an X-ray of the exterior of the tooth or gum. This camera resembles a pen but is a bit larger and is instilled with a protective cover that is disposable for every patient. This device is used widely by dentist and comes in handy in the diagnosis of dental disorders such as cracked teeth and tooth decay. The patient is also able get the clear view of their mouth and hence it acts as a way of educating them.
The naked eye can easily deceive you as it cannot detect small fractures in the tooth. The intraoral camera has the ability to see where the eye cannot see. It is connected to a monitor or screen enabling you to see the fracture in the tooth and in case of the need of gum illness treatment then it is done on time. Dentist in Sacramento CA have adopted this technology and any visit to your dentist will guarantee you the best treatment.
How the camera works
If you living I Sacramento CA and is seeking the services of a dentist then you do not have to worry much as the services have become fast and more reliable. This video camera performs the task of taking X-rays in an in depth manner and it is not a task that will take long. It is fixed with a small lens at the end that captures images of the patient’s mouth and transmits them to the dentist screen. The dentist is able to freeze certain shots and take a close examination of the gum and teeth. This enables a clear view of the start of gum disease, cavities or any other dental malaise. The images can be customized in whichever manner you wish and be stored for further diagnoses and easy keeping of records.
How intraoral radiography is performed.
There are a number of ways in which oral X-rays are performed. A good understanding of these techniques is important so as to get a clear dimension of the errors that each is associated with and come up with the best solution for it. The best technique is the paralleling technique as it the most accurate as it meets the four of the five image projection techniques. The receptor is placed parallel to the long axis of the ailing tooth and parallel relationship is made.
The central ray is placed perpendicularly to both the receptor and the tooth. To reduce chances of sharpness and magnification, the object-source distance is increased.
Another technique is the bisecting angle technique. The receptor in this case is placed as close as possible to the tooth. The central ray is then directed perpendicularly to an imaginary line which bisects the angle created by the receptor’s plane and the tooth’s long axis. Images are in a true linear relationship. This method has a problem or disadvantage in that the images are anatomically incorrect and exposed to shape distortion.
Bitewing technique produces images that are used for the purpose of examining the interproximal layers of the teeth and is most useful in detecting the level of alveolar bones and dental caries. The receptor is placed parallel to the crowns of the posterior teeth. The receptor is stabilized by the patient who bites on the bitewing holder. Receptors can be positioned on a vertical or horizontal dimension depending on the areas that need to be examined.
Patient preparation and management during the intraoral scan
Before carrying out radiographic procedure it is important that you explain the procedure to the patient. Inform them on how they can assist so as to get high quality images, reduce exposure to radiation and avoiding retakes. Movement is the factor that is mostly likely to cause errors and may be as a result of patient disability, discomfort, gagging and unsupported head position.
The benefits of the intraoral camera
As a dentist practitioner having this video camera is a good thing both to you and your patients. The following are some top reasons as to why you should consider it.
- Offers great visibility: the zooming power of most intraoral cameras is greater as compared to that of any microscope. It is able to magnify the smallest of the fractures and make them more visible.
- It is an education tool for the patients: patients are able to see the whole picture as it is and make the best decision regarding their treatment. This is a better way of having them accept the recommendation that you offer.
- Cases follow up/documentation: at times, you may not want to give immediate recommendation or treatment and prefer to keep watch on the affected tooth. With this camera you can take images with every visit and make a comparison to keep track on the progress.
- Insurance claims are made easier: sometimes you may need solid evidence so as to make a claim from your insurer. To some extent the X-ray may not show the clear picture of the tooth and therefore a more digitalized copy of the same will be needed.
Digitalized X-rays will be the only way to make sure that you get the best treatment to your teeth. If you are a resident of Sacramento CA, you have a guarantee that a visit to your dentist will be worth it. This is because most of them have embraced the technology of the intraoral camera that gives a detailed image on the condition of your teeth.