Advancements and Barriers in Teledentistry: Navigating in the Post-COVID Era

Abstract

Teledentistry has experienced a notable surge in popularity, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, as it offers a safer alternative for dental consultations, reducing contagion risks while maintaining access to care. Initially, teleconsultations began with online triage, evolving into a critical component of dental care during the pandemic. Studies show positive reception among dentists and patients, appreciating teledentistry's convenience and effectiveness. Despite pre-pandemic low engagement, the pandemic era witnessed a significant rise in teledentistry's awareness and usage among dentists, suggesting a paradigm shift in dental practices. Research underscores teledentistry's potential as a long-term tool, particularly beneficial for remote or underserved areas, offering services like triage, consultations, and follow-ups. A systematic review emphasized its effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and potential integration into routine health services. Teledentistry's validity is supported by findings that it can be comparable to in-person interactions, especially in specific settings like school-based programs and rural areas. However, teledentistry's adoption faces challenges, including billing, administrative concerns, and effectiveness skepticism among some dental professionals. Factors influencing adoption include performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence. A multifaceted approach addressing barriers at individual, community, organizational, and policy levels is essential for broader acceptance and integration into mainstream oral health systems. Despite these hurdles, a growing number of dentists are integrating teledentistry, motivated by patient convenience, the pandemic's impact, and accessibility. Nonetheless, concerns about reimbursement persist as significant barriers. Understanding stakeholders' diverse motivations and values is crucial for encouraging teledentistry's successful adoption. While it cannot replace all in-person dental care aspects, teledentistry has become an essential tool in the dental industry, enhancing access and offering a safer consultation alternative during and potentially beyond the pandemic.