Smartphone Vs DSLR Dental Photography among Orthodontists

Abstract

Introduction: Smartphone photography has come a long way in terms of technological advances in sensor quality, resolution, and lens sophistication, giving much improved image quality over the last few years. Smartphones being relatively compact and lighter than a Digital SLR camera hence the younger generation dentists prefer it over the conventional cameras. We did a survey to assess the perception of quality of images taken using smartphone and DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) intra oral cameras. The aim of this study is to compare the quality of intraoral images taken using mobile phones with DSLR cameras. Materials and Methods: 20 intra oral images of subjects were taken using DSLR (Canon 700D) and 2 renowned smartphones (iPhone 7 plus and Oppo R7 plus). A questionnaire was prepared and sent through social sources to general dentists and specialists. The questions included in the survey are based on the knowledge, attitude and practice in the usefulness of mobile phones compared to DSLRs for taking intra oral images. Results: The primary outcome measure of this study was to assess the orthodontist’s perception towards the various image characteristics of intra oral photographs taken using digital SLR camera, iPhone 7 plus and Oppo R7 plus. Conclusion: So, from this study we can conclude that there were no statistically significant results found. In the coming years smartphone cameras can really give a tough challenge to bulky cumbersome DSLRs.