Teledentistry: A Game-Changer for Accessible Dental Care

Online oral health appointments are helping to expand access to dental care for underserved groups.

Going to the dentist isn’t exactly the average person’s idea of a great time, but for many, it’s not even an option. Cost, scheduling, and a lack of access to providers can make regular checkups impossible. And without regular checkups, small issues can go unnoticed, snowballing into major life-altering (and expensive) emergencies.

But what if a dentist could come to you—at least virtually? That’s where teledentistry comes in.

What is Teledentistry?

It’s exactly what it sounds like—dentistry, but online. Using video calls, photos, and digital tools, teledentistry lets you consult with a dentist without stepping into a clinic. Long commutes? Gone. Waiting rooms? Eliminated. Pants? Unnecessary—but you better still be wearing them anyways. All you need to do to talk to a dentist is just hop on a video call, or send in photos of your teeth for review. A dentist on the other end will take a look, then give you advice on your next steps.

It’s no replacement for in-person visits, but it’s a great option for the simple things—like consultations, follow-ups, and basic screenings—the ones where you would have had to block out half a day for only a 10 minute conversation.

Who Can This Help?

The short answer? A lot of people.

• People in rural or underserved areas – Many communities don’t have easy access to a dentist, but a virtual consultation can help determine if an in-person visit is even necessary.

• Busy individuals and families – Instead of taking time off from work or school, patients can get quick guidance from a professional online.

• Houseless individuals – Housing struggles can make it difficult to find opportunities to see a dentist, even with low-cost or no-cost options available—but teledentistry allows anyone to see a dentist as long as they have a device with internet access.

• Those facing financial barriers – Teledentistry is often more affordable than a full office visit, with some services even being covered by Medicaid or low-cost programs.

What’s the Catch?

You’ll never get a filling over Zoom. Teledentistry won’t ever replace in-person visits, but it can bridge the gap for people who otherwise wouldn't see a dentist at all. And that’s a big deal.

More clinics are starting to offer virtual consultations, and as tech continues to improve, this could become a game-changer for dental care access.

Want to learn more about teledentistry? Check out the nonprofit CareQuest Institute for Oral Health and see how teledentistry stacks up against traditional care.