Our world has changed in countless ways since Covid-19 struck in 2020. The term “remote” has taken on a whole new meaning, from the way we work to the way we learn to the way we shop. The pandemic also gave rise to the concept of virtual dental consultations, also referred to as teledentistry and the tools used.
While you might imagine that meeting virtually with dental patients might have declined as the pandemic faded, it’s actually more popular than ever.
According to DocASAP’s annual State of Patient Access and Engagement survey, 40% of people would switch health care providers if they wanted a provider who offered both telehealth and in-person visits. Another sign of its acceptance in the dental field? In February 2023, United Healthcare announced it would add two free virtual dental visits per year to its fully insured employer plans.
Widespread acceptance is important, but it takes the right technology to truly make the concept work easily and beneficially for both the dentist and the patient. This is why superior technology like the HIPAA-compliant In Hand Dental app and other teledentistry tools is so exciting.
As an example, utilization of the In Hand Dental app not only helps increase compliance for aligner and braces patients, but it can also monitor important health issues such as TMJ and OSA/sleep apnea.
Dentists have also realized growth in their patient bases because of patient interest in the option, as well as increased profitability as they’ve been able to add services without adding to staffing.
The app which works on a standard Smartphone, allows for excellent doctor-supervised care, and allows real-time communications between dentist and patient – offering the next best thing to being there when it comes to building patient relationships and trust.
The ADA’s policy on teledentistry which was updated in 2020, states that, “examinations performed using teledentistry can be an effective way to extend the reach of dental professionals, increasing access to care by reducing the effect of distance barriers to care.”
From freeing up exam chairs for emergency dental cases and annual cleanings, to increased compliance and realizing growth potential without adding to your staffing needs, teledentistry tools like the In Hand Dental app are being hailed as game-changers in the dental field.
Ready to learn more about how In Hand Dental can level up your practice? Call our office today at (913) 701-7444 to learn more or to set up an appointment to get started.