Understanding Teleorthodontics

Teleorthodontics is the practice of using various technologies to carry out remote orthodontic appointments. That could mean making a simple phone call or using the latest video call technology in order to provide care and guidance.

Like most applications of telehealth, teleorthodontics was a once-unheard-of concept. Nevertheless, despite the challenges involved, modern technology has brought about a rise in teleorthodontics. Remote appointments for consultations and monitoring are a common sight these days, providing convenient options for patients in a wide range of situations.

Of course, some stages of treatment will require in-person care, but things like consultations and the monitoring of treatment progress are all potential candidates for effective teleorthodontics.

The scope of remote appointments for orthodontics has expanded greatly with the rise of a few particular modern technologies. Digital imaging is one example, as it allows for much easier image handling compared to traditional X-rays, also facilitating treatment planning. AI diagnostics are also changing how providers carry out orthodontic evaluations, allowing accurate diagnoses and planning to be drawn from more limited information.

But it isn’t just the advent of new dental equipment and technology that has pushed teleorthodontics forward. The widespread adoption of video-meeting platforms has also helped the field grow. Patients simply feel more comfortable using these kinds of software than they have in the past. Today’s platforms also offer the necessary security to comply with HIPAA and other privacy regulations.

Benefits of Teleorthodontics

Teleorthodontics provides a few key benefits that make it an excellent choice in certain cases. First, it significantly improves accessibility, benefiting patients who live in remote communities where visiting a specialist could mean long travel times. Patients with mobility challenges can also more easily receive the care they need.

Not having to physically visit the dentist opens the door to reliable care for a much broader range of patients, along with making them more likely to move forward with treatment. Without a commute, an appointment takes less time out of a patient’s day. They can find time in a tight schedule to get the important care they need, which will help reduce late arrivals and no-shows for the dental practice as well.

Practice management is always a challenge, but it, too, can be made easier with remote appointments for orthodontics. Having patients visit your physical practice less frequently helps reduce overhead costs. It also cuts back on the time needed in between appointments, letting your practice optimize its schedule to support as many patients as possible.

Implementing Teleorthodontics in Your Practice

The benefits of teleorthodontics are clear, but knowing how to put this treatment option into action at your practice may be less so. There are a variety of areas to keep in mind, all of which are vital to your success.

For one, you’ll need to invest in the proper hardware and software to provide practical teleorthodontics. That means finding equipment such as computers, webcams, and microphones that are suitable for high-quality streaming. You must also ensure that your practice has access to sufficiently high-speed internet and that it meets regulatory requirements. Choose a platform that is suitable for regulatory compliance and meets patient privacy and data protection rules.

Proper training is essential as well. Ideally, you’ll have chosen orthodontic courses for general dentists that include a foundation in modern teleorthodontics. Don’t overlook training your team, either. They must be prepared for the unique administration and compliance tasks that come with teleorthodontics.

Getting patients on board with teleorthodontics may be easier than ever before, but it can still present a major challenge. Orthodontics seems like such a hands-on area of medicine that many patients can’t imagine teleorthodontics offering any substantial benefits.

With that in mind, you must prepare yourself to answer questions patients might have regarding the process. Clearly define the specific aspects of orthodontic care that will be carried out remotely and in which cases your patient will have to come in.

Building the Foundation to Offer Teleorthodontics

Teleorthodontics can satisfy patients with its convenience and accessibility while improving the operational efficiency of your practice. However, you need a solid foundation to ensure that you’re implementing remote appointments for orthodontics properly and maintaining the high-quality care your patients expect.

The American Orthodontic Society provides resources that help general and pediatric dentists implement orthodontic treatment options, including teleorthodontics. Our general dentist orthodontics courses give you the practical knowledge and experience to approach orthodontics confidently. Networking opportunities throughout our membership and other benefits offer additional support. Find out more about what the American Orthodontic Society has to offer your practice today.