How Teledentistry Helps Patients with IDD
by Lisa Curbow, RDH, BAAS
In recent years, a groundbreaking approach called teledentistry has made dental care more accessible for people with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (IDD). Teledentistry uses technology to connect patients with dental professionals remotely, limiting the need for physical in-person visits. This article explains how teledentistry can benefit patients with IDD, providing them with convenient access to quality dental care in the comfort of their own homes. We’ll also discuss how caregivers can play an active role in supporting oral health for their loved ones with IDD.
What is Teledentistry?
Teledentistry is a modern way of receiving dental care without leaving home. It uses video calls and other technology to connect patients with dentists. Just like talking to a friend or family member through a screen, teledentistry allows people to have virtual dental consultations, examinations, and even treatment planning.
Photo courtesy of Lisa Curbow.
How Does It Help Patients with IDD?
For people with IDD, going to the dentist can be a challenge. It may be difficult to travel or visit unfamiliar places, causing anxiety and discomfort. Teledentistry solves these problems by bringing dental care to the patient's home. Through video calls, patients can see and talk to dentists from the comfort of their own living room. This means no long journeys or unfamiliar dental clinics, reducing stress and making dental care more accessible.
What Role do Caregivers Play?
Caregivers play a crucial role in supporting the oral health of patients with IDD. Here are some ways caregivers can actively participate in teledentistry:
Communication: As a caregiver, you know your loved one's oral health needs best. During teledentistry appointments, communicate any concerns, changes in oral health, or difficulties your loved one may be experiencing. This information helps dentists provide personalized care and advice.
Oral Care Training: Teledentistry offers an excellent opportunity for caregivers to receive specialized training on oral care techniques. Dentists can guide you on brushing, flossing, and other essential oral hygiene practices tailored to your loved one's specific needs. This training ensures that you can provide consistent and effective oral care between dental visits.
Sharing Information: Caregivers can help dentists by sharing relevant information about their loved one's medical history, medications, allergies, and previous dental treatments. This information allows dentists to make informed decisions about treatment plans and precautions.
Observations and Support: During teledentistry appointments, caregivers can assist dentists by providing visual observations of the patient's oral health. You can help ensure good lighting for the video call and use a mirror to show areas of concern. Your support and presence can also help your loved one feel more comfortable during the virtual consultation.
Teledentistry’s Benefits
Teledentistry offers several benefits for individuals with IDD:
Convenience: Virtual dental appointments eliminate the need for long trips and waiting in dental offices. With teledentistry, dental care comes to you, saving time and reducing stress.
Personalized Care: Through video calls, dentists can assess your loved one's oral health and provide individualized treatment plans. They can address specific concerns and offer guidance tailored to your loved one's unique needs.
Enhanced Access: Teledentistry breaks down geographical barriers, ensuring that individuals with IDD have access to qualified dental professionals, even in areas with limited specialized services.
Continuity of Care: Regular virtual check-ups through teledentistry help maintain consistent oral health care. Dentists can monitor progress, address any issues promptly, and provide ongoing support, reducing the risk of dental emergencies.
Teledentistry’s Limitations
No X-rays can be taken during a teledentistry visit, so not all dental issues are properly diagnosed.
The dentist can only see what the caregiver can capture with the camera. If the patient isn’t able to cooperate, the caregiver can’t show the dentist all the information they need.
Teledentistry visits help dentists determine whether they’ll need to sedate the patient for a thorough examination or treatment. Therefore, a physical visit or sedation may still be necessary.
Laws on how a dentist is allowed to use teledentistry for visits vary by state. Some states allow extremely limited use while others allow a broader range of use. Caregivers need to check with their local dentist to see what it allowed and what they are equipped for regarding teledentistry visits.
Teledentistry has revolutionized dental care for special needs patients by bringing quality oral health services directly to their homes. Thanks to virtual consultations, people with special needs can access convenient and personalized dental care, which reduces stress and enhances overall oral health. Caregivers play a vital role in supporting teledentistry by actively participating in appointments, providing relevant information, and ensuring effective oral care between visits. With the benefits of teledentistry, special needs patients can enjoy improved access, comfort, and continuity of care, ultimately leading to healthier smiles and enhanced well-being.
About the Author:
Lisa Curbow, RDH, BAAS, has been in clinical dental practice for almost three decades. She has also served as office manager and hospital coordinator. Having a child on the spectrum fostered her interest in better serving those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Lisa’s passion is in empowering others to be better equipped to treat patients with special needs. She is a member of the Special Care Dentistry Association (SCDA).
