Clinical photography has long played a significant role in dentistry and advances in technology have made its implementation more possible and purposeful than ever. Many dentists, however, are still slow to adopt dental photography as a core element of their practice. Barriers to fully engaging with this technology include lack of knowledge of equipment and techniques and sometimes intimidation. Other times, practitioners are simply unaware of the numerous ways in which photography can be integrated into their workflow and the exceptional benefits of doing so.
The rise of social media has brought with it an influx of highly esthetic photography meant to represent the peak of dental artistry. While this marketing-centric approach certainly has its place in dental practice, undeniably the most important utilization of dental photography is more practical than artful. Dental photographs first and foremost serve as a means of documentation and communication—with patients and other dental professionals.
A key addition to patient records, photographs offer a static, detailed look at the oral and maxillofacial condition. High-quality digital intraoral and extraoral images can pave the way for more accurate diagnoses and treatment planning. Photographic case documentation likewise acts as a powerful communication tool, allowing you to present findings and treatment options to patients with clarity and confidence and help manage expectations. Both patients and practitioners can benefit from evaluating “before and after” sets of clinical images in order to measure progress and determine next steps.
When it comes to communicating with parties outside your practice, dental photography can be a critical asset. High-resolution images can facilitate an over-the-phone consultation or provide a referred specialist with a clearer understanding of patient history. Perhaps even more valuable is the information they offer dental laboratories for creating cosmetic and restorative prostheses. While physical or digital impressions provide laboratory technicians information on prosthetic form, tooth appearance is usually conveyed via a shade prescription. Dental photographs can be used in lieu of these prescriptions, delivering precise, true-to-life representations of color, chroma, opacity and overall character of dentition.
From better patient and professional communication to record-keeping, treatment planning and more, embracing the latest dental photographic technology, techniques and trends truly elevates patient care to new heights. By developing an understanding of camera operation and photography fundamentals like framing, angles and magnification, you can ensure the quality and consistency of your images for better clinical outcomes and healthier, happier patients.
To take your dental photography to the next level, register for the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry’s upcoming course, “Fundamentals of Dental Photography: A Focus on Accreditation” with Adamo Notarantonio, DDS, FAACD at https://aacd.com/continuum - Adamo.