Typically, when you come into the office for an oral exam, you see a set of metal tools on a tray next to your chair. One of the tools you are most likely familiar with is the small mirror. This mirror is used to give us a better look into your mouth and is becoming a thing of the past. An intraoral camera is a small, handheld device that looks similar to a large pen. It is, essentially, a higher tech version of the traditional mirror. It is connected to a monitor, where the images are displayed in real time, and allows us to get a better look at exactly what is happening inside your mouth. We can also capture stills, which will allow us to focus in on certain areas without the need to hold the pen in your mouth for an extended period.

Many people have anxiety about visiting the dentist. There are several reasons for this anxiety. What can make your anxiety worse is that you have no idea what we are doing when we are examining the inside of your mouth. You can only attempt to imagine what we are telling you. You may not even believe what you are being told, or think the condition isn’t as bad as it is. Thanks to the intraoral camera, we can help to alleviate your anxiety and build your trust. Because the images are displayed on a monitor, you have the ability to see exactly what we do. No more imagining required.

There are numerous benefits to the intraoral camera:

• You gain a better understanding of why we are recommending specific treatments.
• We can take stills, and zoom in on areas that appear suspicious. We can better uncover small trouble spots, and provide treatment before they become serious.
• Images can be stored in your digital file and pulled up with a few clicks of a button. Old images can be compared side by side with older ones, allowing us to track your progress.
• You become more involved in your oral health care.

It’s your oral health, and you should be actively involved. The images taken with an intraoral camera allow for just that. You can take the images home with you. When you inspect your mouth, you will know exactly what you are looking for. As soon as you notice a change or something that looks off, you can take action and call the office right away. Getting seen as soon as something is noticed can go a long way in preventing serious oral health complications.