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Updated: Jun 17, 2026
A Standardized Approach to Extra-Oral and Intra-Oral Digital Photography
Published on: July 22, 2022
The use of clinical photography by UK general dental practitioners
G A Morse1, M S Haque, M R Sharland
1General Dental Practitioner, Hilltop Dental Surgery, Northfield, Birmingham, B31 2QT. gregmorse@tiscali.co.uk
Aim:
The aim of this study was to assess by means of a postal questionnaire the numbers of general dental practitioners (GDPs) who used clinical photography and for what application.
Method:
The questionnaire was distributed to 1,000 randomly selected dentists in the UK with an explanatory letter and reply paid envelope. The data collected was computerised and analysed statistically.
Results:
Five hundred and sixty-two replies were received. Of the respondents, 48% used clinical photography, with 59% using a digital camera, 34% a 35 mm camera and 19% a video camera. Principal uses of clinical photography were treatment planning (84%), patient instruction/motivation (75%), medico-legal reasons (71%) and communication with the laboratory (64%).
Conclusion:
Clinical photography was used by 48% of general dental practitioner respondents.
