Does the camera type affect the quality of orthodontic photographs? Mirrorless and smartphone cameras versus digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera.

This study compared the quality of orthodontic clinical photographs taken with a digital single lens reflex (DSLR) camera, a mirrorless camera, and a smartphone (iPhone 14 Pro). Using 180 photographs from six participants, four orthodontists assessed image clarity, colour accuracy, and lighting, categorizing images as good, acceptable, or unacceptable. Results showed that DSLR (Canon 70D) and mirrorless (Canon RP) cameras consistently produced 100% good-quality photographs, while smartphone images were rated good in 41.7% of cases and acceptable in 58.3%, with no unacceptable ratings. The study concluded that although smartphone photographs may suffice for basic clinical records, DSLR and mirrorless cameras remain the preferred tools for high-quality orthodontic imaging, especially for large-format applications, due to superior resolution, lighting capabilities, and consistency.