Online Dental Consultation: Is It Effective?

In the current pandemic situation, many individuals have postponed visits to the dentist due to concerns about the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Since the beginning of 2020, online medical consultation services, also known as telemedicine, have become a preferred choice for people seeking healthcare services. However, can online dental consultations be conducted, and are they effective?

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), telemedicine enables patients to consult with doctors remotely without face-to-face interactions. This helps patients receive information about suspected diagnoses, initial treatments for diseases or injuries, and tips for improving overall health. While telemedicine is prevalent in some countries, its sustainability in Indonesia remains a challenge, especially concerning legal certainty.

In the context of online dental consultations, even before the pandemic, some dental clinics experimented with this service. However, its effectiveness has been questioned because accurate diagnoses often require a direct physical examination and, in some cases, additional tests. Dental care, in particular, involves direct interventions that are not always accommodated through online consultations.

The implementation of telemedicine in dental and oral health services faces technical challenges and obstacles. Over a hundred percent of dental treatments involve direct physical actions inside the patient's mouth. Therefore, telemedicine, to a certain extent, may only involve Tele-Consultations, with various limitations.

A study published in the ABC Cardiology journal concluded that the main weakness of telemedicine is the inability of doctors to examine patients directly, which can affect the quality of diagnoses. Therefore, for accurate diagnoses, a direct dental examination by a dentist remains the most appropriate step.

Although online dental consultations may be an option for discussing general complaints or obtaining initial advice, a direct examination by a dentist is still necessary to determine an appropriate treatment plan. It is recommended to undergo dental and oral health check-ups at least every 6 months with a trusted dentist.

BIA (Bali Implant Aesthetic) Dental Center, located in Seminyak, Bali, can be a reliable choice for dental clinics. Don't let dental issues disrupt your vacation in Bali. Entrust your dental care to the best dental clinic in Bali.

References:

1. [PDGI: Telemedicine Dentistry](http://pdgi.or.id/artikel/telemedicine-dentistry) (accessed on March 23, 2022)

2. [Tirto: Understanding Telemedicine](https://tirto.id/mengenal-telemedicine-beserta-kelebihan-dan-kekurangannya-fsnL) (accessed on March 23, 2022)

Contact Information:

BIA (Bali Implant Aesthetic) Dental Center

Jl. Sunset Road No.168, Seminyak, Badung, Bali, Indonesia 80361.

+6282139396161