In this guide, I’ll look at a series of premium cameras that work well for anyone interested in or involved with dental photography.
I’ve spent most of my life working with camera and videography equipment. That knowledge, combined with several first-hand accounts, allowed me to conduct extensive research on the various items in this article.
I believe that the Nikon D7500 is the best dental photography camera due to its strong specs, crisp resolution, and inherent versatility.
The camera offers a range of useful features, including a full-tilt screen, 4k resolution, and impressive continuous shooting. It also has incredible connectivity if you need to work with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth thanks to the slick interface and impressive companion app.
There are plenty of other great options out there too. I’ll look at those, as well as the D7500, in much greater detail below.
Contents
Top Cameras for Dental Photography
The following section analyzes the best dental cameras by looking at their traits as well as what specific niches they excel at.
1. Nikon D7500
- Best for: Overall
- Key Features: Wide ISO range. Full tilting screen and 4k resolution. Up to 8 fps continuous shooting. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Excellent companion app.
- Screen Size: 3.2 inches
- Optical Zoom: 1x
- Weight: 1.66 pounds
The D7500 is an exceptional camera for dental photography due to its strong specs and impressive resolution. You want the best possible imagery, and this achieves that through the 51 point-focusing system and 4k resolution. The sensor and wide LCD screen are also strong.
The connectivity is top of the line as well. The model works through the Nikon SnapBridge app thanks to the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. You can quickly and easily get your photos onto a myriad of different devices so you can get a better look at your shots.
This camera also has an ergonomic design that makes it a joy to handle. The only drawback to the model is that the zoom could be better. The shots are sharp, but you’re not going to get any extreme closeups. There’s only 1 memory card slot as well, which is something to keep in mind.
2. Canon EOS Rebel T7i
- Best for: Low Light
- Key Features: Continuous shooting at 60fps. 242MP CMOS sensor. 45 point autofocus. Stunning detail and color. Great Wi-Fi compatibility.
- Screen Size: 3 inches
- Optical Zoom: 7x
- Weight: 1.18 pounds
Low light situations may not be the first thing that comes to mind when picking out a strong dental camera, but the Rebel T7i comes with ample resolution and exceptional specs that let you shoot in all types of light. The 242MP CMOS sensor goes a long way towards that end too.
Beyond giving you the ability to shoot in dim spaces, this model also comes with high-speed continuous shooting, a 45 point autofocus, and built-in Wi-Fi. You even get Canon’s EOS Webcam Beta Software for additional functionality.
The biggest issue is that the lens focus can be a bit finicky, which can be annoying when trying to get the perfect shot. This is also not the best camera for beginners or those not familiar with dental photography. You should familiarize yourself with the specs before using it.
3. Nikon D5600
- Best for: Versatility
- Key Features: 1080p video quality at 60fps. SnapBridge allows for smartphone compatibility. 3.2-inch touchscreen. Great low light functionality.
- Screen Size: 3.2 inches
- Optical Zoom: 1x
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
Dental cameras tend to be for one or two specific purposes, but that doesn’t mean don’t want options. The D5600 is a camera that allows you to use a range of powerful features in a myriad of different ways. You get a 1080p recording, a wide touchscreen, and a strong sensor.
On top of that, everything is easily usable and incredibly functional. The SnapBridge app allows for greater connectivity, while the streamlined menus work with the touch display and in-camera tools to create a well-rounded user experience. The camera also does a good job in low light.
The biggest con with the D5600 is its battery. It just doesn’t have the same juice or power as other dental cameras. Also note the model lacks a few more premium features you’ll find in other DSLRs. However, you still get a strong model with plenty of excellent traits.
4. Power Shot G7X Mark II
- Best for: Compact
- Key Features: Strong shooting ability. High resolution. LCD monitor with 180-degree upward and 45-degree downward tilt. Built-in Wi-Fi. Compact size.
- Screen Size: 3 inches
- Optical Zoom: 4.2x
- Weight: `1 pound
If lightweight is what you’re after, consider the Mark II. This camera delivers powerful results in a small, easy-to-manage, package. It’s ergonomic, well-built, and can be quickly stored in your pocket or bag. A perfect choice for people taking dental pics for long periods of time.
However, the device is more than just a small body. It doesn’t just provide you with excellent resolution and a top-tier aperture value, it also comes with a bright 3-inch LCD monitor that tilts 180 degrees up and 45 degrees down. It provides continuous shooting as well.
The biggest drawback is also the Mark II’s biggest strength: its size. The camera is compact. Though that comes with various pros, it also means it’s not the most durable or long-lasting dental option. Be careful when using it and make sure not to drop or bang it around too much.
5. Powershot SX740
- Best for: Budget
- Key Features: Incredible zoom. Clear resolution. Plenty of accessories including SD card reader and wrist strap. Powerful battery.
- Viewfinder: Fixed LCD
- Optical Zoom: 40x
- Weight: 1.96 pounds
Anytime you look for a good dental photography camera you’re going to have to spend a fair bit of money. However, that doesn’t mean you need to completely break the bank. The SX740 is a strong camera from a strong brand that offers plenty of reliability at a reduced price.
While you are always going to lose a few features when saving some money, this comes with plenty of accessories and specs. That includes a strong zoom, long-lasting battery, and good resolution. The wrist strap and starter kit also give you extra peace of mind.
Just know that, while the optical zoom is incredible, you do lose a bit of quality when working with the digital zoom. This model also gives you 30 minutes of recording at a time. However, you’ll have plenty to work with for dental purposes.
How to Choose a Camera for Dental Photography
All of these traits are critical to keeping in mind when looking at any dental photography camera.
Type
When looking for a camera, dental, or otherwise, it’s always critical to pay attention to the type you plan to buy. Each one brings different traits to the table, has numerous uses, and sits in a specific budget range. Always try to get the model that best fits your needs.
You can get a compact digital camera, a bridge model, a mirrorless camera, or a DSLR. Compact and bridges tend to come with lower specs, but they are also less expensive than mirrorless or DSLRs. It just comes down to what you want for your dental shots.
Flash
Though it’s easy to overlook when checking out other specs, you should always pay attention to your camera’s flash or its flash options. You need light to get good interior shots. Don’t settle for something with a weak flash or that doesn’t properly illuminate someone’s mouth.
You have several options here, but you should get something that comes with many different flash options. That includes full-manual settings or flash-diffusers. Macro cameras offer different results too. You can also branch out and buy LED ring flashes if you need extra light.
Durability
As with other cameras, it’s important to get a tough dental model. It doesn’t matter how careful you are or how calm the environment you work in, you need to be able to trust that your camera won’t break in the event of an accident. It needs to be dent and ding proof as well.
Go with a metal construction from a well-known brand. Those insurances each go a long way, especially when trying to get something that’s long-lasting. At the very least ensure your camera has what it takes to handle a lot of use over long periods of time.
My Verdict
Due to its excellent ISO range, continuous shooting capabilities, and overall crisp resolution, I consider the Nikon D7500 to be the best dental photography camera money can buy. It gives you everything you need without being too bulky over complicated.
The full tilt screen is an especially nice touch for when you need to capture photos of tricky or hard-to-see places. The connectivity and companion app is simply icing on what is already a well-rounded and easy-to-handle device.
