A VISIT to the dentist could be a pleasurable visit thanks to a new camera which allows patients to see inside their mouth as the dentist is working.

Bluebell Dentist Practice in Tomswood Hill, Chigwell, has installed computers in its two surgeries which are linked to a tiny "intra-oral" camera that sees into a patient's mouth. The images are shown on a flat screen tv above the dentist chair.

The new technology, which cost about £6,000 to install, allows patients to see first hand what work needs to be carried out, and means the dentist can explain what he or she is doing step by step. Rougly the size of a pen, the camera looks directly into the patients mouth, and can be magnified to achieve the best view.

And there is an added bonus: for those facing a long stay in the chair, or are in need of relaxing, the screens can be used to play DVDs or CDs.

Principal dentist Suki Kanagasabai correct said: "People seem to love it, mainly as a TV screen because it takes their mind off the treatment. Some patients do like to see the work being carried out. They can relate to it when they need treatment and can see what's going on. It helps them to understand what we're doing."

The new camera has also been a boost to dentists, who can use the cameras to take photos.

Mrs Kanagasabai said: "This is a useful tool for dentists to do before and after photos, of things such as lesions, which we may want to keep to review in six months or so. We can then tell if there are any changes and show patients what's going on."

Dental company Dental Dynamix supplied and installed the Durr VistaCam.

Mrs Kanagasabai said: "We've been here for about 18 months, and this is all part of our vision. The cameras don't cost our patients any extra. We're trying to offer a more relaxed atmosphere here, that the patients and the staff will feel comfortable in."