Question

What is tele-dentistry and how could it be used to improve overall access to oral health care? What are some ethical and legal issues that could come into play?

Answer 1

Introduction: Teledentistry was first used in 1997. Here we search web for dental informations to help the patient understand the disease process and how to help in recovery.

Definition: Teledentistry is an innovative and a new field which includes the exchange of images and clinical details/ informations over remote areas for consultation and treatment planning by tying up with the specialities in larger communities.

How could it be used to improve overall access to oral health care:

• It uses electronic information to communicate newer technologies to provide healthcare when there is a long distance between individuals.
• It improves the quality of care as well as effiency of care.
• It also helps for dental analysis and follow up.
• Teledentistry delivers oral healthcare at a lower costs.
• People in remote places can get help from for thier dental treatment by qualified doctors through telecommunication.

Ethical and legal issues that could come into play:

• Confidentiality of the dental information is at risks as there is transfer of medical records.
• Dental practitioners should take care that the privacy of patient is not compromised.
• Patient should be informed about the risk of wrong diagnosis/ treatment due to failure of technology at times.
• Medicolegal as well as copyright issues ahould be taken care of .
• Informtion on teledentistry licensing is not available even today.