P. Loiacono, L. Pascoletti. UK: Quintessence price £110.00; pp 336 ISBN

9788874921690

Increasing numbers of dentists are using photography in their practices, not only for patient records, but also in aiding education, treatment planning and allowing patients to have autonomy over their treatment. The advances in the digital era have simplified the complexities of modern equipment allowing dentists to achieve high quality pictures with minimal effort.

This well-written text, which includes hundreds of photographs, is aimed at any dentist with an interest in dental photography. The 336 page text is split into 2 parts: the theory and the techniques. The 13 chapters cover the general principles of photography, the role of photography in clinical practice and equipment and accessories.

The theory behind photography introduces an easy-to-read guide on camera and exposure settings, which can be applied not only to dental but also general photography. It fluidly follows on to the orthography of images, which highlights the optical properties of light and teeth.

The practical part of the book encompasses two very interesting chapters titled extra-oral and intra-oral series. This is a comprehensive guide on how to take specific views complete with excellent illustrations. The chapters also explain the equipment needed, positioning of patient and camera settings for each specific view in order to achieve high results for a variety of intra-oral and extra-oral views.

This is a well-thought-out and clearly written publication where the authors' knowledge and interests in photography are clearly shown and conveyed to the reader. The book will be used as a background to understanding the role that photography plays and the extra-oral and intra-oral series can be used as a quick reference guide as one aims to produce optimal images for themselves and their patients.