Very often, when examining the oral cavity, the dentist discovers that some teeth need treatment. However, the patient does not yet experience pain and refuses the offered services. Using dental intraoral cameras, the doctor can clearly show the problem areas on the monitor and motivate the client to perform the necessary procedures.
Functional properties
Dental intraoral cameras are miniature video devices built into the tip of a small device to which a monitor is connected. When you enter it into the oral cavity, the image of the teeth appears on the screen, enlarged many times (from 10 to 40). At the same time, even the simplest camera (without a computer) displays images on a monitor screen and allows you to save up to four pictures at a time.
Currently, there are cameras to which you can connect a computer. This provides additional opportunities for transferring pictures electronically to another doctor, to the registry (for attachment to the patient’s card). It should be noted that the cameras are small in size and weight, have good waterproofing, which allows them to be reliably protected during disinfection. For personal protection, a disposable plastic case is put on the camera tip.
Some modern intraoral cameras have a number of additional functions:
- mirror reflection;
- "freeze";
- “Picture in picture”;
- ability to produce x-rays.
The advantages of devices
The advantages of using an intraoral camera with a monitor for diagnosis in comparison with other methods are obvious:
- Determining the presence of diseases of the oral cavity at an early stage.
- Visual presentation of the work done to the patient.
- The ability to take a picture in hard to reach places.
- Using the obtained images for display to students and in scientific works.
- Good visibility of the oral cavity due to the additional illumination available.
In addition, the image on the screen helps the dentist correctly draw up a treatment plan and monitor his work. The captured images can be used to identify the truth in the event of any disagreement between the doctor and the patient.
Main characteristics
The first intraoral cameras appeared in the 90s of the last century. They were in little demand, since there was practically no information about their existence. Now manufacturers offer a large selection of these devices. Thanks to the Internet, their popularity has greatly increased. Periodically, models are improved, new functional properties appear. For the right choice, this fact must be taken into account.
The main characteristics of intraoral cameras to which you should pay attention when buying:
- Work in several modes at the same time.
- Portability.
- Easy to focus.
- The presence of the function "freeze frame".
- A way to control the camera.
- Optical properties.
- Photosensitivity.
- Flash quality.
For high-quality work of the dentist, shooting is required in 6 angles (minimum). Most cameras have such functions, so there is no problem when choosing a device.
You also need to consider the compactness of the cameras. Bulky appliances interfere with work. Focusing in most cameras is done manually. In order to control this function with one hand, you should pay attention to the clarity of the marking. The amplitude of movement of the cameras should be no more than 100 degrees. In older models, there is often no “freeze frame” function, so it is important not to miss this fact. It is also necessary to show interest in the amount of memory for storing images.
Intraoral cameras are controlled, usually with a foot pedal or buttons on the tip. The choice depends on the preferences of the doctor. When choosing optical characteristics, it is necessary to pay attention to the quality of the lenses with which the devices are equipped. Preference should be given to well-known manufacturers of these products. Photosensitivity is also an important characteristic in conditions of differences in lighting or its insufficiency. It is important to remember that when specifying this characteristic in suites (Lux) it is better to choose this indicator with the lowest value. When determining the quality of lighting, it is necessary to choose a special dental round flash that evenly distributes light in the oral cavity.
Differences of Good Doctors cameras from analogues
Currently, the market offers many models of intraoral cameras from various manufacturers. The products of Good Doctors, delivered in finished form with individual software, are most in demand. Consider the varieties of the Whicam intraoral camera manufactured by this company.
The Whicam Drs Cam model from this company appeared in 2010. From its analogues, the main advantages distinguish it:
- ability to deviate by 18 degrees;
- rotation around its axis;
- coating with a paint of a special composition that prevents fogging of the lens;
- equipped with a zoom function, providing an increase in the image with the click of a button;
- connection to any computer using a regular USB connector;
- lack of additional illumination (application of OLED technology);
- storing in memory up to 30 pictures that are transferred to the computer;
- translation of the image in the "x-ray mode".
It should be noted that with all the variety of the listed functions, such cameras are quite simple to control (only 3 buttons).
A variety of Whicam models
Despite the listed advantages of Whicam Drs Cam, Good Doctors has additionally released a number of models that meet different price categories, optimizing some features. For example, a Whicam 1 camera can be connected to a TV using an RCA cable and to a computer with an appropriate board (TV tuner). It can also work on batteries. All subsequent models also differ from each other in functional features. The latest Whicam 6 is wireless, which is very convenient to use. Its delivery set includes a high-capacity battery and an LCD screen.
Installation of equipment
When buying an intraoral camera, the question often arises about how to mount the camera and monitor. To suspend the camera itself, it is necessary that its dimensions coincide with the connectors of the installation on which the dental instruments are stored. To install the screen, the lamp stand is unfastened, and another link is inserted. It is necessary that the camera has a video output, and the monitor with an input for connecting without additional wires.
However, in order to avoid problems, it’s still better to buy a unit equipped with a monitor. For these purposes, economy-class devices are offered in stores. More expensive installations include a camera and a flat screen.
Specialists note that the use of the intraoral camera in dentistry has greatly increased the desire of people to maintain a healthy oral cavity. In order to timely contact a specialist, some patients independently acquire these devices. They are connected to a TV or smartphone to constantly monitor the condition of the teeth.