Why Dentists take Intra-Oral Photos

What are Intra-Oral Photos

Intra-oral photos are photos that are taken of your teeth, gums and oral tissue. These photos may be of a single tooth, a group of teeth, or any area of your mouth. At our office, photos are taken with a small, high quality digital camera that moves comfortably within your mouth. As the photos are extremely close, our Schick camera has a fixed focal range to ensure a crisp, clear photo.

Creating a Baseline

Taking intra-oral photos helps our doctors and clinicians establish a baseline for all of the dental conditions in your mouth. We are able to monitor any recession or suspicious lesions that you may have in your mouth to discover if these conditions are getting better or worse.

Referrals

When we refer a patient to a specialist, we often send the corresponding intra-oral photos to the specialist ahead of time. This allows the doctors to see what our Evanston dentists saw when you were in our office. In this case, it supplies a baseline for our referring doctors to reference when you visit their office.

Another way we use intra-oral photos is for insurance purposes. Often insurance companies ask for supporting documents to help them identify the need for treatment. The most commonly requested documents are x-rays, but we often send intra-oral photos to help support the diagnosis as well. The intra-oral photos allow the dentists and doctors that review the information for the insurance company to get a better look at the conditions of your mouth.

Helping Diagnose

With the intra-oral camera, our Evanston dentists and clinicians are able to take close up photos of your teeth from angles that they would not normally be able to see. This helps them diagnose conditions more accurately. In some cases, the condition may have shown up on an x-ray, but in other cases (specifically fractures,) it is not as readily apparent.

You

The most important reason we take intra-oral photos is for you. Often you can’t see what the conditions are in your mouth. By taking the intra-oral photos, we are able to show you what we see and let you know your best treatment options. Intra-oral photos are also helpful to our hygienists. They are able to show you what they see, especially if they find an area of your mouth where there is a larger amount of tartar. This may indicate that you need to brush or floss more in one area of your mouth. Your hygienist will use intra-oral photos they have taken to help you maximize your home care.

Our staff is committed to helping you keep your smile healthy and intra-oral photos are one of the most useful tools we have. As one of our doctors says, his “photographic memory is much better with photos to back it up.” Taking intra-oral photos creates a complete picture of the condition of your mouth and helps us provide you with the best that dentistry has to offer.

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The Importance of Preventative Dental Care

February 4, 2025

Preventative dental care is a proactive approach to maintaining oral health by preventing diseases and addressing potential issues before they become serious. It involves regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and other preventive measures that help keep teeth and gums healthy. This form of care is essential as it allows for early detection of dental problems, which can prevent more severe conditions such as gum disease and tooth decay. Regular check-ups can identify issues like cavities, misalignment, and oral cancer at an early stage, making them easier and less costly to treat. The economic benefits of preventative dental care are significant. By addressing issues early, patients can avoid expensive treatments in the future. A study published by the American Dental Association highlights that investing in preventative care can lead to substantial cost savings over time. Routine Cleanings: A Cornerstone of Oral Health Routine dental cleanings are vital for removing plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be eliminated by regular brushing and flossing alone. These cleanings play a crucial role in preventing gum disease and tooth decay. During a cleaning, dental hygienists use specialized tools to clean areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush, ensuring a thorough cleanse of the oral cavity. Dental professionals generally recommend that individuals have their teeth cleaned every six months, although this frequency may vary based on individual needs and risk factors. According to Dr. Marcos Montoya of Stephens Dentistry, "Regular cleanings are an essential part of maintaining oral health. They help prevent serious dental issues and keep your smile bright and healthy." The Role of Sealants and Fluoride Treatments Dental sealants and fluoride treatments are effective preventative measures that protect teeth from decay. Sealants are thin, protective coatings applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, where decay often starts. They act as a barrier, preventing food particles and bacteria from settling into the grooves of the teeth. Fluoride treatments involve the application of fluoride to the teeth to strengthen enamel and make it more resistant to decay. These treatments are beneficial for both children and adults, particularly those with a higher risk of cavities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , fluoride is highly effective in preventing cavities. Tips for Maintaining Oral Hygiene at Home Maintaining oral hygiene at home is crucial for overall dental health. Daily practices such as brushing twice a day and flossing once a day are fundamental. Using tools like electric toothbrushes and water flossers can enhance cleaning by reaching areas that traditional brushes might miss. A balanced diet also plays a significant role in supporting oral health. Foods rich in calcium and phosphorus, such as dairy products and leafy greens, help strengthen teeth. Conversely, limiting sugar intake and avoiding smoking can prevent decay and gum disease. Lifestyle habits have a profound impact on oral health. Smoking and excessive sugar consumption can lead to serious dental issues, including cavities and periodontal disease. By adopting healthy habits, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of dental problems. Common Misconceptions About Dental Prevention Several misconceptions surround dental prevention. One common myth is that only sugary foods cause cavities. While sugar is a major contributor, acidic foods and poor oral hygiene can also lead to decay. Another misconception is that dental visits are unnecessary if there is no pain or visible issue. Regular check-ups are essential for detecting hidden problems that may not yet cause discomfort. Some individuals believe that home remedies can replace professional treatments. While good home care is important, it cannot substitute for professional dental services. Personalized advice from dental professionals is crucial, as they can provide tailored recommendations based on individual needs. The Local Perspective: Dental Care in Evanston and Surrounding Areas In Evanston and surrounding areas like Skokie, Highland Park, Wilmette, and Winnetka, local dental practices emphasize the importance of preventative care . Stephens Dentistry , a prominent practice in the region, has been committed to patient-focused care since 1959, offering a range of services that prioritize prevention. Community initiatives and local programs often promote dental health awareness, encouraging residents to prioritize their oral health. Cultural attitudes towards dental care in these areas reflect a growing recognition of the importance of prevention, with many individuals actively seeking regular dental services. Access to dental care facilities in Evanston and its neighboring regions is generally good, with practices like Stephens Dentistry providing comprehensive services to ensure the community receives the care it needs. By focusing on prevention, these practices help residents maintain healthy smiles and avoid costly treatments in the future.

Healthy Sleep, Healthy Smile: Understanding Dental Sleep Medicine

December 7, 2024

In a fast-paced world, the importance of quality sleep cannot be overstated. It is a cornerstone of overall health and wellness, affecting everything from cognitive function to physical vitality. Many individuals suffer from sleep disorders that not only disrupt their nightly rest but also impact their oral health. Dental sleep medicine emerges as a critical field that bridges the gap between sleep disorders and dental care, offering solutions that enhance both sleep quality and oral health.