Dental Cameras and Imaging Systems Key Terms

Dive into dental camera talk and learn the lingo of imaging systems

The types of dental cameras and imaging systems used in dental offices vary widely across the country and world, but all systems use some of the same basic parts. By learning the key terms associated with dental imaging systems, you'll be able to compare system options more easily.

There are specific differences in digital and analog imaging in the dental industry. There are also many other important terms with which you need to familiarize yourself in order to understand the functions of dental cameras.

Intraoral or extraoral imaging

The intraoral digital camera is used to take photos inside the mouth of a patient, while the extraoral imaging is just the opposite. Images are taken outside the mouth of the teeth using the extraoral imaging technique. Most cameras are equipped to handle both chores, but not all intraoral cameras can be used outside the mouth.

Digital single-lens reflex

The digital single lens reflex (SLR) camera is the counterpart to its old 35mm predecessor. With the digital SLR you get a lot more electronic functions that would previously have been done manually.

Ring flash

Ring flash is a specific flash designed to fit most dental imaging cameras so that the macro photography receives the amount of light needed for a good quality photo. Ring flashes are usually sold with dental cameras, but they may need to be purchased separately with some models.

Macro

Macro is the term used to describe up-close photography of small objects, such as teeth. In dental imaging, macro photography is usually used to get very close views of teeth and the mouth. When a macro photo is taken, it is also important to get good lighting on the small area. A ring flash is usually used to get the lighting needed with dental macro photography.

Aperture priority

A dental imaging camera should have an aperture priority that allows the user to adjust the opening of the lens to let in more or less light depending on the need. In aperture priority mode, a dentist can adjust the F-stop to a lower number for a large depth of field-ensuring all teeth are in focus-or a larger number for a small depth of field keeping only a specific spot in focus.

Bracketing

Use a camera's bracketing mode to take several photos at one time using different exposures. Bracketing can help you get the best exposed shot without taking the time to adjust and retake photos over and over again. The mode will take a set of images using different exposures and white balances, leaving you to choose the best one.

Copyright © 2013 Business.com, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

---