How to Take Orthodontic Photos

A few clear photos are often enough to understand whether you’re looking at crowding, spacing, or a bite issue. Follow this guide to get the best results on your first try.

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Quick checklist

Light: stand facing a window or bright room light.

Camera: use the back camera if possible (higher quality).

Distance: arm’s length, then zoom slightly if needed.

Sharp: tap to focus on teeth.

Dry lips: wipe saliva before close-ups.

The photos we usually need

Try to take these in a bright place. If someone can help you, even better. If not, a mirror + phone timer can work.


1) Front teeth, teeth together

Bite together normally. Keep lips relaxed (or gently out of the way) so we can see how the front teeth meet.


2) Right side bite

Bite together normally and turn your head slightly so we can see how the back teeth fit on the right side.


3) Left side bite

Same as the right side, but on the left. Keep the phone level with your teeth.


4) Upper teeth close-up

Tilt your head back slightly and take a clear photo of the upper teeth. Tap to focus.


5) Lower teeth close-up

Tilt your head down slightly and take a clear photo of the lower teeth. Tap to focus.


If you’re struggling to get a clear photo

Move closer to light: the #1 fix for blurry images.

Clean the lens: quick wipe makes a big difference.

Tap-to-focus: focus on teeth, not the nose.

Use the back camera: better focus and detail.

Ask for help: someone else can hold the phone steady.

Ready to upload?

The assessment guides you step-by-step and checks you’ve captured what’s needed.

Start Photo Assessment

Related pages

What we can tell from photos

Photos help highlight alignment (crooked/crowded), spacing (gaps), and bite patterns (overbite/crossbite/open bite). They’re a fast way to get direction before you commit to appointments.

FAQs
Do I need special equipment?
Why do you need side bite photos?
What if my photos are blurry?
Can I still submit if I can’t get one angle right?

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How It Works

Capture guided photos

Use your phone or webcam to follow guided prompts and capture the right angles in around 5 minutes.

Clinician review and options

An orthodontic team reviews your assessment and creates a digital quote with options like braces and clear aligners.

Accept when you’re ready

Compare your options in your own time. If you accept, a coordinator contacts you to arrange next steps and get you started.

100% online to start. No pressure. Move forward only when it feels right.
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