Intraoral Camera Exams in Glendale, CA 91202
See What We See: A New Level of Dental Transparency
At Aghbashian Dental Corp, we believe that the best patient is an informed patient. Gone are the days of simply opening your mouth and taking the dentist's word for it. With our state-of-the-art Intraoral Camera technology, part of our general dentistry services, Dr. Nova Aghbashian invites you to be an active partner in your own dental care.
This small, handheld device allows us to tour your mouth in high definition, streaming live video and images to a chairside monitor. For the first time, you can see exactly what we see-cracks, decay, and gum health magnified and in full color.
What is an Intraoral Camera?
An intraoral camera is a pen-sized diagnostic wand equipped with a powerful light and a high-resolution lens. It is roughly the size of a dental mirror and is completely comfortable for the patient.
During your exam, Dr. Aghbashian moves the camera around inside your mouth to capture detailed images of individual teeth and gum tissue. These images are instantly displayed on a screen right in front of you, allowing us to zoom in on specific problem areas that are often invisible to the naked eye.
Why We Use Intraoral Cameras
We utilize this technology to build trust and ensure you feel 100% confident in your treatment plan.
1. Instant Verification & Trust
"Is that really a cavity?" You never have to guess again. If we recommend a filling or a crown, we can show you the fracture, the dark spot of decay, or the broken filling immediately on the screen. Seeing is believing.
2. Early Detection
The high magnification of the intraoral camera allows Dr. Aghbashian to detect the earliest signs of dental issues, such as micro-fractures or initial stages of gum disease. Catching these problems early often means simpler, less expensive, and less invasive treatments.
3. Better Insurance Approvals
Insurance companies often require visual proof before approving a procedure. Intraoral camera images serve as clear evidence of your dental needs, often filed under diagnostic imaging codes, which helps expedite claim approvals and maximize your benefits. Most plans allow this type of imaging once every 12 months, so we'll let you know if your visit qualifies. Coverage varies by plan, and we're happy to check your specific benefits before your appointment.
4. Tracking Your Progress
We save these images to your digital file, creating a visual history of your oral health. This allows us to monitor changes over time, for example, watching a specific "watch spot" to see if it grows or stays stable giving you peace of mind.
Intraoral Camera vs. X-Rays vs. Intraoral Scanners
These three tools work together, but they do different jobs.
| Tool | What It Shows | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Intraoral Camera | Surface of teeth and gums, in color, in real time | Spotting cracks, decay, worn fillings, and gum inflammation you can see |
| Digital X-Ray | Inside the tooth, below the gumline, bone and roots | Detecting decay between teeth, bone loss, and issues invisible to the eye |
| Intraoral Scanner | 3D digital impression of your bite and tooth shape | Crowns, aligners, and other restorations that need a precise digital model |
We use these tools together, not as substitutes for one another, so your diagnosis and treatment plan are based on the fullest possible picture of your oral health.
What Can the Camera Reveal?
- Hidden Decay: Cavities hiding between teeth or in deep grooves, often the earliest sign a root canal may eventually be needed if left untreated.
- Cracked Teeth: Hairline fractures that cause sensitivity but don't show up on X-rays. Left unaddressed, some cracks progress to the point where a root canal treatment is required.
- Worn Fillings: Old silver (amalgam) fillings that are leaking or pulling away from the tooth.
- Gum Disease: Visual inflammation or recession of the gum line.
- Plaque Buildup: Showing areas where brushing and flossing might be missed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the intraoral camera painful?
Not at all. The device is small, about the size of a standard electric toothbrush head, and non-invasive. Most patients find it fascinating to watch the tour of their mouth!
Does this replace X-rays?
No. Intraoral cameras show the outside of the tooth with incredible detail, while digital X-rays allow us to see inside the tooth and beneath the gum line (bone and roots). We use both technologies together for a complete diagnosis.
Can I get a copy of the photos?
Yes! Since the images are digital, we can easily email them to you if you want to keep them for your records or show a spouse/parent.
Is an intraoral camera exam safe for children?
Yes. Intraoral cameras are non-invasive, radiation-free, and safe for patients of all ages, including kids. Many children find it easier to understand why brushing matters once they see their own teeth on the screen.
How often should I have an intraoral camera exam?
Most patients benefit from an intraoral camera exam as part of their regular checkup, typically once or twice a year. If you have an ongoing concern like a "watch spot" or gum inflammation, we may recommend imaging more frequently.
Does insurance cover an intraoral camera exam?
Coverage varies by plan. Many dental plans include intraoral imaging under diagnostic or preventive benefits, often limited to one exam every 12 months. We'll check your specific benefits and let you know what to expect before your visit.
Schedule Your Preventive Dental Care Visit Today
Schedule Your Preventive Dental Care Visit TodayHealthy teeth start with routine care. Call today to schedule your checkup & cleaning appointment:
Aghbashian Dental Corp
1000 N Central Ave #130,
Glendale, CA 91202
