Frequently Asked Questions
Will my insurance carrier accept dental photos as verification of my condition?
The answer depends on your carrier and condition. However, most insurance carriers require some form of charting, radiographs, or narrative before disbursing benefits. Intraoral photographs can often help to support a patient’s case.
How are dental photos useful in prosthesis?
Stone models are commonly used to depict a patient’s tooth position and shape. Unfortunately, these models fail to capture tooth or gingival character, color, or shade. Color-corrected intraoral photos can assist in creating the most natural-looking prosthetic teeth for the patient.
What should I expect when my dental photos are being taken?
We may take intraoral photos before, during, or after your treatment. In any case, you will need to rest comfortably in one of our chairs and hold certain positions. We will set up lights and mirrors to get the most accurate depiction of the mouth, and we may hold back your lips as necessary to allow for a good view of the mouth and teeth. Once we have taken the photographs, Dr. Bushdid will review them with you and point out both the healthy areas and potential areas of concern.
What are some dental conditions that you can identify with intraoral photos?
There is a wide array of health conditions we may be able to detect with intraoral photography. Some of the most common are cavities, cracks, decay, enamel texture, gum disease, and tooth and gum abnormalities.
Do I need to take intraoral photos every time I go to the dentist?
No. Every patient has different needs. Some may need to take more frequent intraoral photos, and some may need to take less. In any case, they are generally not required during every check-up. Dr. Bushdid may use intraoral photography to establish any existing conditions or make a diagnosis before creating a customized treatment plan for you.