1
|
Martins HDD, de Lucena CP, da Silva QP, Dantas MVO, Costa MDDAS, de Lucena EHG, Bonan PRF. Telehealth in oral medicine: A cross-sectional evaluation based on a mobile application. Technol Health Care 2024; 32:1515-1522. [PMID: 37599549 DOI: 10.3233/thc-230584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Teledentistry is considered a good tool in the diagnostic process. In oral medicine, there is a low number of trained professionals and dentists have difficulty in diagnosing and treating oral lesions. OBJECTIVE We aimed to perform a cross-sectional evaluation based on the mobile application for oral diagnosis using a mobile application in a Brazilian State. METHODS This is a retrospective, cross-sectional, observational study of the data of the "Telehealth in Stomatology in Paraíba" carried out between May 2021 and November 2022. RESULTS The app has a team of 16 consultants (Ph.D. professors, postgraduate students, residents, and dentists). In addition, there are 289 registered professionals, with a mean age of 33.7 years, predominantly female (70.2%), working in primary care (79.2%), and general practitioners (42.6%). Regarding the cases, the app has 194 cases, and reactive lesions are the most suggested hypotheses reported by dentists (24.5%) and consultants (22.3%). We had an overall concordance rate of 64.1%. CONCLUSION The application is easily accessible and has an assistance network that helps with early diagnosis. In addition, it has good coverage with users in more than 50% of the cities in the state. Thus, applications that provide specialized care to distant areas are important for better public health.
Collapse
|
2
|
Kanani H, Khubchandani M, Dangore-Khasbage S, Pandey R. Teledentistry: A Comprehensive Review and Its Application in Pediatric Dental Care. Cureus 2024; 16:e52685. [PMID: 38384649 PMCID: PMC10880874 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent years, dental technology has experienced remarkable advancements, mirroring the evolution of communication and information technologies. The advent of information technology has paved the way for a new frontier in healthcare known as teledentistry. This innovative approach has revolutionized the delivery of dental care across geographical distances, enhancing accessibility and communication in the realm of oral health. This article aims to highlight the various methodologies of teledentistry, discuss its benefits for both patients and dentists, and emphasize its potential to overcome geographical barriers, enhance access to dental care, and promote oral health equity, especially among children. There are three primary teledentistry methods: real-time consultation, the store-and-forward method, and the remote monitoring method. Real-time consultation facilitates immediate interaction between dentists and patients through video conferencing, enabling the sharing of data and medical history. The store-and-forward method involves the collection and transmission of essential diagnostic materials, enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Remote monitoring allows continuous patient evaluation from a distance, improving healthcare delivery and patient safety. Teledentistry's impact on pediatric and preventive dentistry is substantial. It offers remote counseling, diagnosis, and monitoring for children, especially in areas with limited access to dental care. Additionally, mobile gaming apps play a role in behavioral management and reducing dental anxiety among children. Both patients and dentists benefit from teledentistry. Patients gain access to timely consultations, reducing the need for immediate in-person visits. Dentists can efficiently evaluate and monitor patients, collaborate with specialists, and provide expert advice, leading to improved healthcare delivery. Teledentistry is transforming dental care by overcoming geographical barriers, improving access, and enhancing communication. While facing challenges, its potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery and promote oral health equity is undeniable. With ongoing advancements and strategic measures, teledentistry is poised for a promising future in healthcare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harikishan Kanani
- Pediatric Dentistry, Sharad Pawar Dental College and Hospital, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Monika Khubchandani
- Pediatric Dentistry, Sharad Pawar Dental College and Hospital, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Suwarna Dangore-Khasbage
- Oral Medicine and Radiology, Sharad Pawar Dental College and Hospital, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Ruchika Pandey
- Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, Sharad Pawar Dental College and Hospital, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lim TW, Pan H, Pan M, Burrow MF, McGrath C. Agreement in quantification of removable prosthesis plaque area coverage using a semi-automated planimetric assessment method. J Dent 2023; 138:104721. [PMID: 37741504 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdent.2023.104721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the agreement of removable dental prosthesis cleanliness as assessed by a semi-automated planimetric method between images captured by a digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR) and smartphone. METHODS A total of 97 participants with removable prostheses were recruited for the quantification of the prosthesis plaque area coverage. The colour images of stained prosthesis plaque were obtained using both a DSLR camera and a smartphone. The prosthesis plaque area coverage was analysed in two ways: (i) prosthesis cleanliness index (PCI) and (ii) percentage plaque area coverage (PPC). The PPC (continuous data) was converted to the PCI (categorical data) to provide prevalence ordinal scales and the agreements in PCI ratings were determined using weighted Kappa statistics. Agreement of PPC scores was determined through assessing directional, standardised directional, and absolute differences and correlation analyses. RESULTS Weighted Kappa values of agreement between PCI categories were excellent (> 0.80) for all comparisons. The mean PPC was 24.79 % as determined by DSLR and 25.37 % as determined by smartphone. There was no statistically significant difference in the means of PPC between the DSLR and smartphone (P = 0.149). The standardised directional difference was 0.15 ('small'). The mean absolute difference was 2.77. The interclass correlation coefficient was 0.98 ('excellent'). CONCLUSIONS This method showed almost perfect agreements and allowed for threshold-based plaque segmentation on the removable prostheses. There was substantial agreement between DSLR and smartphone assessment of prosthesis plaque area coverage as determined by a semi-automated planimetric assessment. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE This semi-automated planimetric assessment method has implications for monitoring removable prosthesis hygiene initiatives by offering a valid, reliable, and quantitative method of assessment with potential use in managed care and community settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tong Wah Lim
- Division of Restorative Dental Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Hongyi Pan
- Department of Radiology, Northwestern University, Chicago, United States
| | - Mi Pan
- Department of Civil and Environment Engineering, University of Macau, Macao, PR China
| | - Michael Francis Burrow
- Division of Restorative Dental Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong SAR, PR China
| | - Colman McGrath
- Division of Applied Oral Sciences and Community Dental Care, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Homsi K, Ramachandran V, Del Campo DM, Del Campo LM, Kusnoto B, Atsawasuwan P, Viana G, Oubaidin M, Allareddy V, Elnagar MH. The use of teleorthodontics during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond - perspectives of patients and providers. BMC Oral Health 2023; 23:490. [PMID: 37454048 PMCID: PMC10349415 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-023-03215-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted dental services, resulting in reduced staff availability, limited appointments, and some dental clinics even being forced to close their doors. Despite these challenges, the need for dental consultants remained present, particularly in emergency situations. One area of orthodontics that had seen a surge in demand during the pandemic is Teleorthodontics. With the help of Teleorthodontics, orthodontic consultations, assessments, and even treatment monitoring could be conducted remotely, making it a safe and convenient option for patients during those challenging times. AIM This survey aimed to evaluate the acceptance of patients and their orthodontists on the use of different modes of communication through Teleorthodontics during the COVID-19 pandemic and their willingness to continue using this in the future. METHODS An online survey instrument in Qualtrics was distributed to orthodontic patients at the University of Illinois, Chicago. The survey was available on a rolling basis for up to 6 months. A total number of 364 partients voluntarily participated in the survey. The Faculty and Residents were also asked to participate in a survey through recruitment via their UIC email addresses. RESULTS According to our survey, both patients and providers showed acceptance of Teleorthodontics and have used it in different forms during orthodontic treatment. The application is easy-to-use, convenient, and not at all time-consuming. Overall satisfaction with using this application was recorded at 92%, with 66% of patients stating that it saved them time by eliminating the need to travel to the orthodontic clinic. 30% of providers found that the interaction with patients using Teleorthodontics was a positive experience and would recommend it in future. CONCLUSION Teleorthodontics has shown great potential, particularly in follow-up cases, and holds promise as a valuable tool for online remote dental consultations in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karen Homsi
- Department of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Vinitha Ramachandran
- Department of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | | | - Laura Martin Del Campo
- Department of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Budi Kusnoto
- Department of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Phimon Atsawasuwan
- Department of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Grace Viana
- Department of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Maysaa Oubaidin
- Department of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Mohammed H Elnagar
- Department of Orthodontics, College of Dentistry, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Niknam F, Sharifian R, Bashiri A, Mardani M, Akbari R, Tuffaha H, Do L, Bastani P. Tele-dentistry, its trends, scope, and future framework in oral medicine; a scoping review during January 1999 to December 2021. Arch Public Health 2023; 81:104. [PMID: 37316914 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-023-01128-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tele-dentistry has been increasingly used for different purposes of visit, consultation, triage, screening, and training in oral medicine. This study aims to determine the main facilitators, barriers, and participants` viewpoints of applying tele-dentistry in oral medicine and develop a framework indicating the input, process, output, and feedback. METHOD This was a scoping review conducted in 2022 applying Arksey and O'Malley (2005) approach. Four databases including ISI web of science, PubMed, Scopus, and ProQuest were searched from January 1999 to December 2021. Inclusion criteria consisted of all original and non-original articles (reviews, editorials, letters, comments, and book chapters), and dissertations in English with a full text electronic file. Excel2016 was used for descriptive quantitative analysis and MAXQDA version 10 was applied for qualitative thematic analysis. A thematic framework was developed customizing the results of the review in a virtual mini expert panel. RESULTS Descriptive results show that among 59 included articles, 27 (46%) have addressed the various applications of tele-dentistry during COVID-19 pandemic in the field of oral medicine. From geographical distribution perspective, most of the papers were published in Brazil (n = 13)/ 22.03%, India (n = 7)/11.86% and USA (n = 6)/10.17%. Thematic analysis shows that seven main themes of "information", "skill", "human resource", 'technical", "administrative', 'financial', and 'training and education' are explored as facilitators. 'Individual', 'environmental', 'organizational', 'regulation', 'clinical', and 'technical barriers' are also identified as main barriers of tele-dentistry in oral medicine. CONCLUSION According to the results for using tele-dentistry services in oral medicine, a diverse category of facilitators should be considered and at the same time, different barriers should be managed. Users` satisfaction and perceived usefulness of tele-dentistry as final outcomes can be increased considering the system`s feedback and applying facilitator incentives as well as decreasing the barriers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Niknam
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Student Research Committee, Health Human Resources Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Roxana Sharifian
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Health Human Resources Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Azadeh Bashiri
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Health Human Resources Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Maryam Mardani
- Oral and Dental Disease Research Center, School of Dentistry, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Medicine, School of Dentistry, Oral and Dental Disease Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Akbari
- Department of Computer Engineering and Information Technology, Shiraz University of Technology, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Haitham Tuffaha
- Centre for the Business and Economics of Health, Faculty of Business Economics and Law, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Loc Do
- School of Dentistry, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, Oral Health Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Peivand Bastani
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Health Human Resources Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
- School of Dentistry, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, Oral Health Centre, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Valeri C, Quinzi V, Di Giandomenico D, Fani E, Leonardi R, Marzo G. Teledentistry: A bibliometric analysis of the scientific publication's trend. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231204747. [PMID: 37846400 PMCID: PMC10576925 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231204747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Teledentistry is a specialized area within telemedicine employs digital technology and telecommunications to remotely manage dental patients, offering care, advice, education, and treatment. The significance of teledentistry escalated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective This study presents a bibliometric analysis of teledentistry, based on a retrospective search of the Scopus database. Materials and methods The research utilized Bibliometrix and VOSviewer software. Results Publications on teledentistry have shown a recent surge, particularly since 2020, attributed to the pandemic. Out of 369 articles, just 28 (7.5%) were single-authored, while most involved collaborative efforts. These articles were dispersed across 160 journals, with the Journal Of Telemedicine And Telecare, International Journal Of Environmental Research And Public Health, and Telemedicine And E-Health each publishing over 15 articles. Remarkably, 66% of the journals featured open-access content. The University of Western Australia emerged as the most prolific institution, with 12 publications, while the United States, Chile, and Brazil led in the number of published documents. Conclusions The growing interest in teledentistry, mainly fueled by the pandemic, has promising implications for dental practice. Despite the existing limitations, it holds potential. This bibliometric analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the field and offers valuable quantitative insights for shaping future research and funding strategies, especially concerning protocol development and digital risk assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Valeri
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate School of Orthodontics, Università degli Studi dell’Aquila, Abruzzo, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Quinzi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate School of Orthodontics, Università degli Studi dell’Aquila, Abruzzo, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Daniela Di Giandomenico
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate School of Orthodontics, Università degli Studi dell’Aquila, Abruzzo, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Eda Fani
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate School of Orthodontics, Università degli Studi dell’Aquila, Abruzzo, L’Aquila, Italy
| | - Rosalia Leonardi
- Department of General Surgery and Surgical-Medical Specialties, School of Dentistry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Marzo
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, Postgraduate School of Orthodontics, Università degli Studi dell’Aquila, Abruzzo, L’Aquila, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ginesin O, Zigdon-Giladi H, Gabay E, Machtei EE, Mijiritsky E, Mayer Y. Digital photometric analysis of gingival response to periodontal treatment. J Dent 2022; 127:104331. [PMID: 36252859 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdent.2022.104331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The color is a major factor in determining inflammation status in most gingival indices. Current indices have limitations mainly due to subjective nature. Digital color analysis can provide objective and accurate measurements. Thus, the present study aimed to assess by digital tool the gingival color in the different stages of an active periodontal treatment. METHODS Forty patients (19 males and 21 females) diagnosed with periodontitis (stage III/ IV, grade C) and treated surgically were included in the study. Clinical data (probing depth, bleeding on probing, clinical attachment level, gingival index, and gingival recession) and photographs by digital single-lens-reflex (DSLR) camera were recorded before initial periodontal treatment, which included scaling and root surface debridement (T0); the same parameters were then re-evaluated 6-8 weeks (T1) and 3 months after periodontal surgery (regenerative/resective) (T2). Differences between clinical parameters were calculated. The color space defined by the International Commission on Illumination (CIELab) was used to analyze gingival color. RESULTS In 56 periodontal surgical sites, 168 photographs were taken. The a*-value of the CIELab color system (higher a*- value translate to a stronger red color) was significantly reduced between T0 to T1 and further decreased at T2 (32.01, 29.28, and 27.45 respectively). Significant improvement in clinical parameters were found between T0 to T1 and T1 to T2. Sub-analysis of two distinct surgical interventions revealed that only regenerative procedure improved the a*-value, which was significantly correlated with pocket depth reduction. CONCLUSIONS Photometric analysis can be used to assess gingival color change during periodontal treatment of patients with periodontitis. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Gingival inflammation is a major factor in periodontal assessment; nevertheless, all current gingival inflammation indices are partially subjective and only semi-quantitative. The digital photometric analysis may allow for accurate and objective gingival color assessment during periodontal treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ofir Ginesin
- Senior Faculty Staff, Department of Periodontology, School of Graduate Dentistry, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel P.O.B 9602, Haifa 31096, Israel. Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israeli Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Hadar Zigdon-Giladi
- Deputy Chairman, Department of Periodontology, School of Graduate Dentistry; Director, Laboratory for Hard Tissue Regeneration, CRIR institute, Rambam Health Care Campus. Professor, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israeli Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Eran Gabay
- Senior Faculty Staff, Department of Periodontology, School of Graduate Dentistry, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel P.O.B 9602, Haifa 31096, Israel. Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israeli Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Eli Eliahu Machtei
- Chairman, Department of Periodontology, School of Graduate Dentistry; Professor, Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israeli Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | - Eitan Mijiritsky
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery and Maxillofacial Surgery, ENT Array, Tel-Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, The Maurice and Gabriela Goldschleger School of Dental Medicine, Tel-Aviv 6997801, Israel
| | - Yaniv Mayer
- Senior Faculty Staff, Department of Periodontology, School of Graduate Dentistry, Rambam Health Care Campus, Haifa, Israel P.O.B 9602, Haifa 31096, Israel. Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion - Israeli Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Migas K, Kozłowski R, Sierocka A, Marczak M. Evaluation of Tele-Dentistry and Face-to-Face Appointments during the Provision of Dental Services in Poland. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12101640. [PMID: 36294779 PMCID: PMC9605474 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12101640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Tele-dentistry is a rapidly growing field, especially in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, remote services are of increasing interest to both patients and dental personnel. They allow for reduced person-to-person contact and thus a reduced risk of transmission of the SARS-CoV2 virus. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the functioning of all areas of life, including dental treatment. The aim of the study was to assess the possibility of using tele-dentistry for dental services and analyse the attitudes of patients and dentists towards this solution. The period analysed was between March 2019 and February 2021 in five healthcare entities in Cracow in Central Europe. The study’s retrospective analysis shows a positive attitude of patients towards tele-dentistry at every stage of treatment, from diagnosis through postoperative care, and a significant reluctance of dentists in the majority of dental specialties towards tele-dentistry. Consequently, a significant percentage of patients were invited to dental offices for a face-to-face appointment during the COVID-19 pandemic. The negative attitude of dental personnel towards tele-dentistry compared with the positive attitude of patients towards tele-dentistry is somewhat worrying in view of the possibility of a further pandemic. At the same time, it provides important information about the need to educate and support dental personnel in tele-dental solutions and improve solutions for the future. Taking into account the potential reduction in dental care costs for patients and countries after the implementation of tele-dentistry solutions, this is an important topic, while current studies do not comprehensively address the attitudes of patients and dental personnel towards tele-dentistry. In other parts of the world, a similar approach to tele-dentistry is used by patients and dentists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Klaudia Migas
- Department of Management and Logistics in Healthcare, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-503-628-588
| | - Remigiusz Kozłowski
- Center of Security Technologies in Logistics, Faculty of Management, University of Lodz, 90-237 Lodz, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Sierocka
- Department of Management and Logistics in Healthcare, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland
| | - Michał Marczak
- Department of Management and Logistics in Healthcare, Medical University of Lodz, 90-419 Lodz, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gurgel-Juarez N, Torres-Pereira C, Haddad AE, Sheehy L, Finestone H, Mallet K, Wiseman M, Hour K, Flowers HL. Accuracy and effectiveness of teledentistry: a systematic review of systematic reviews. Evid Based Dent 2022:10.1038/s41432-022-0257-8. [PMID: 35804195 PMCID: PMC9264296 DOI: 10.1038/s41432-022-0257-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has urged healthcare systems to develop new ways to safely provide care. Telehealth has become a compelling alternative. Our purpose was to evaluate the accuracy and effectiveness of teledentistry for screening, diagnosis and therapeutic management of dental care in children and adults.Methods We conducted a systematic review (SR) of systematic reviews. Multiple databases, the grey literature and conference archives were searched. Eligible SRs included those reporting virtual screening, diagnostic investigations and therapeutic interventions. Two investigators independently reviewed abstracts, articles, critically appraised SRs and extracted the data.Results We identified 817 citations and included six SRs. The accepted SRs involved >7,000 participants, used primarily asynchronous communication for diagnostic/screening outcomes and used synchronous communication for treatment outcomes. SRs were of low quality and included 30 primary studies of our interest. Sensitivity and specificity for dental referrals and diagnostic treatment planning were higher than other index/reference tests, ranging from 80-88% and 73-95%, respectively. Treatment outcome measured patient compliance and professional supervision.Conclusion This SR provides the best existing evidence for clinical decision-making involving teledentistry. Current evidence supports teledentistry as an effective means for dental referrals, treatment planning and compliance and treatment viability. Asynchronous communication and the adoption of smartphones for image capturing are feasible and convenient for the implementation of teledentistry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ana E Haddad
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lisa Sheehy
- Bruyère Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada; University of Ottawa Heart Institute Research Corporation, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Hillel Finestone
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Élisabeth Bruyère Hospital, Ottawa, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Karen Mallet
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada; Champlain Regional Stroke Network, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | - Kannika Hour
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Heather L Flowers
- School of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada; The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Flores APDC, Roxo-Gonçalves M, Batista NVR, Gueiros LA, Linares M, Santos-Silva AR, Lopes MA, Flausino C, Meurer MI, Grando LJ, Molina-Bastos CG, Guattini VLDO, Carrard VC. Diagnostic accuracy of a telediagnosis service of oral mucosal diseases: A multicentric survey. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol 2022; 134:65-72. [PMID: 35422409 DOI: 10.1016/j.oooo.2022.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this multicentric study was to assess the diagnostic accuracy of a telediagnosis service for oral mucosal disorders. STUDY DESIGN This study included 100 patients seen at the oral medicine outpatient clinic of 3 Brazilian Dental Schools (University of Campinas, Federal University of Pernambuco, and Federal University of Santa Catrina) from March 2019 to October 2019. In addition to the face-to-face assistance provided by graduate students and the final diagnosis validated by the professors of these institutions, a remote evaluation was requested for these patients through the EstomatoNet/TelessaúdeRS platform. RESULTS The sensitivity and specificity of telediagnosis were compared with those of the face-to-face approach and found to be 100% and 97.4%, respectively. The concordance between the examiners was 95%, and case management was relatively simple in approximately 60% of cases. CONCLUSIONS Based on the results, telediagnosis for oral diseases can be considered a reliable method, representing a promising alternative for the clinical support of health professionals, particularly in remote locations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Michelle Roxo-Gonçalves
- Oral Pathology Department, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; TelessaudeRS-UFRGS, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | | | - Luiz Alcino Gueiros
- Oral Medicine Unit, Departamento de Clínica e Odontologia Preventiva, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil
| | - Matheus Linares
- Oral Diagnosis Department, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Alan Roger Santos-Silva
- Oral Diagnosis Department, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Márcio Ajudarte Lopes
- Oral Diagnosis Department, Piracicaba Dental School, University of Campinas, Piracicaba, SP, Brazil
| | - Carolina Flausino
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Maria Inês Meurer
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Liliane Janete Grando
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | | | | | - Vinicius Coelho Carrard
- Oral Pathology Department, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; TelessaudeRS-UFRGS, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Poirier B, Jensen E, Sethi S. The evolution of the teledentistry landscape in Australia: A scoping review. Aust J Rural Health 2022; 30:434-441. [PMID: 35567780 PMCID: PMC9542832 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.12874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There has been a recent surge in the use of teledentistry services in Australia that has paralleled the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the limited published literature reflecting on this transition, this article employed a systematic scoping review methodology. OBJECTIVE The objective was to explore the role of teledentistry in the provision of clinical dental services in Australia. DESIGN Two independent reviewers searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and grey literature sources to identify literature eligible for inclusion. The search was restricted to Australia and service delivery. Data were categorically synthesised by modalities and reported benefits and limitations; findings were cross-referenced with the COVID-19 pandemic timeline. FINDINGS The systematic search identified 758 articles, of which 25 met the inclusion criteria. Results highlight a range of service providers and definitions of teledentistry. A shift in modality from asynchronous towards synchronous teledentistry pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic is detailed. DISCUSSION Whilst highly useful during the COVID-19 pandemic, teledentistry provides a unique opportunity to continue to increase the accessibility of dental services, especially for patients in rural areas or those who are immunocompromised. CONCLUSION Clinicians and researchers must consider opportunities to merge existing research with the recent clinical uptake of teledentistry for patients that would benefit from teledental services beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brianna Poirier
- Adelaide Dental School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Emilija Jensen
- Adelaide Dental School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.,Department of Paediatric Dentistry, Women's and Children's Hospital, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Sneha Sethi
- Adelaide Dental School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Tiwari T, Diep V, Tranby E, Thakkar-Samtani M, Frantsve-Hawley J. Dentist perceptions about the value of teledentistry. BMC Oral Health 2022; 22:176. [PMID: 35562798 PMCID: PMC9101983 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-022-02208-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Teledentistry has expanded access to oral health care by allowing patients and providers the option to receive care using technology and telecommunications. This study used a cross-sectional, mixed-methods design to evaluate dentists’ perceptions in the United States and understanding of the value and scope of teledentistry in their practices and to adopt virtual encounters as a care delivery methodology. Methods This study used a cross-sectional, mixed-methods design. The DentaQuest Partnership for Oral Health Advancement (now CareQuest Institute for Oral Health) conducted an electronic survey of providers in the DentaQuest Network that assessed the impact of COVID-19 on dental practices' patient volume, staffing, dental insurance carriers, treatment protocols, and the office's pre-and post-COVID finances. A total of 2767 dental providers completed the survey with a response rate of 13%. Qualitative interviews were then conducted with ten providers to get more in-depth information on teledentistry. Descriptive statistics summarize the survey population. Thematic analysis, which allows both deductive and inductive approaches, were used to analyze the interviews. Results About 23% of the dentists used teledentistry or virtual platforms. Findings illustrate that early adopter dentists were more likely to perceive the benefits of teledentistry as being more significant than its drawbacks. Late/resistant adopters to teledentistry were less aware of its benefits and were more focused on the drawbacks, such as upfront cost. Late adopters were also concerned about the level of care delivered through teledentistry. Conclusions This study explored dentists’ perceptions of teledentistry. Expanding access to care was recognized as one of the greater values of teledentistry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tamanna Tiwari
- Anschutz Medical Campus School of Dental Medicine, University of Colorado, 13065 East 17th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Vuong Diep
- CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Eric Tranby
- CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Soegyanto AI, Wimardhani YS, Maharani DA, Tennant M. Indonesian Dentists' Perception of the Use of Teledentistry. Int Dent J 2022; 72:674-681. [PMID: 35568528 PMCID: PMC9485514 DOI: 10.1016/j.identj.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Teledentistry is the use of information and communication technology to provide dental services from distant locations. The use of teledentistry is highly beneficial in the COVID-19 pandemic era. Objective This study aimed to explore Indonesian dentists’ perceptions of the use of teledentistry in their daily practice and the benefits for patients. Methods This was a descriptive cross-sectional study comprising an electronic survey of Indonesian dentists. We used a cross-cultural, adapted questionnaire that consisted of 26 items and 5-point Likert scale questions that evaluated dentist perception in the following 4 domains: usefulness of teledentistry for dental practice, usefulness of teledentistry to improve practices, usefulness of teledentistry for patients, and dentists who had concerns about the use of teledentistry. Results A total of 652 dentists from 34 provinces in Indonesia participated in this study. The majority of respondents agreed about the usefulness of teledentistry in dental practice, especially for saving time, compared to referral letters (87%). Most respondents recognised the utility of teledentistry for improving dental practice and its benefits for patients. Nevertheless, most of the dentists had concerns about teledentistry in terms of digital forgery concern (74.2%) and technical incompatibility (71.8%). Conclusions Indonesian dentists reported their positive perception of the usefulness of teledentistry for improving dental practice and benefits for patients, although some concerns were still present. Further studies on the application of teledentistry in Indonesia are still needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Diah Ayu Maharani
- Department of Preventive and Public Health Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Marc Tennant
- School of Human Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hariyani N, Shanbhag N, Wijayati E, Prananta A, Setyowati D, Palupi R. Teledentistry and online referral system in Indonesian primary health care center during the COVID-19 pandemic: A narrative review. J Int Soc Prev Community Dent 2022; 12:385-392. [DOI: 10.4103/jispcd.jispcd_244_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
|
15
|
Al Mohaya MA, Almaziad MM, Al-Hamad KA, Mustafa M. Telemedicine Among Oral Medicine Practitioners During COVID-19 Pandemic and Its Future Impact on the Specialty. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2021; 14:4369-4378. [PMID: 34707420 PMCID: PMC8544785 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s325777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic necessitated widespread changes in delivery of dental care. Telemedicine utilization increased overnight during this pandemic because of its ability to enhance access to oral healthcare, easily link to remote area, time management, low cost, etc. We aimed to identify the utilization of telemedicine among oral medicine practitioners in Saudi Arabia during COVID-19 pandemic and identify future impacts, potential challenges and barriers hindering the implementation of telemedicine. Methods The present cross-sectional electronically self-administered supplement-based survey Supplement Based Survey study was conducted among different professional levels of oral medicine involving consultants, specialists, and residents. The supplement includes demographic data, the current use of telemedicine, participant's perspective on future implications, and potential barriers and limitations of telemedicine. Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach's alpha (α) to assess how closely related a set of items in our study. Results Of the total (N = 75) oral healthcare professionals, 52% were male, 70.7% were Saudi, 45.3% were consultant, 42.7% had 1-5 years of experience, 82.7% were practicing in urban areas, 93.3% stated COVID-19 affected their clinics, consultation was the major reason for the use of telemedicine before (50.7%) and during (72%) COVID-19 outbreak, 57.3% were communicating with their patients, 97.33% had not experienced any cyber risk, and 45% patients were satisfied with the telemedicine service; our data showed a high level of homogeneity (α = 0.82). The poor knowledge and training on telemedicine technologies may substantially (p < 0.05) impact the future implications of telemedicine in oral medicine practice. Conclusion Telemedicine could be a useful adjunct for oral medicine practice, especially for remote diagnosis, consultation, referral, training and education. Our study emphasizes an urgent need to increase the awareness and education on how to utilize and practice telemedicine technologies among medical staff to maximize the efficiency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maha Ali Al Mohaya
- Oral Medicine & Special Care Dentistry, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mansour M Almaziad
- Oral Medicine and Pathology, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid A Al-Hamad
- Oral and Maxillofacial Department, Majmaah University, Majmaah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Mustafa
- Scientific Research Center, Prince Sultan Military Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Tan SHX, Lee CKJ, Yong CW, Ding YY. Scoping review: Facilitators and barriers in the adoption of teledentistry among older adults. Gerodontology 2021; 38:351-365. [PMID: 34523172 DOI: 10.1111/ger.12588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE/BACKGROUND Access to oral health care among older adults is a key issue in society, which has been exacerbated by social distancing measures and lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic. Older adults would greatly benefit from teledentistry, yet little information exists on the enablers and challenges of adopting this technology for use with this group. The aim of this scoping review is to summarise the applications and key factors associated with the adoption of teledentistry among older adults. MATERIALS AND METHODS This scoping review was developed in accordance with Arksey and O'Malley's five-stage framework and the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review protocol guidelines. Publications on teledentistry involving direct clinical services for older adults aged 60 and above were included. Publications that focused solely on teleeducation were excluded. A systematic search was carried out on major electronic databases until 25 August 2020. Out of 1084 articles screened, 25 articles were included. Facilitators and barriers were categorised using the socio-ecological model. RESULTS/DISCUSSION Teleconsultation and telediagnosis were the most reported applications of teledentistry among older adults. Reported policy-level factors were data privacy issues (n = 7) and regulations (n = 17). Community-level facilitators and barriers included the availability of resources (n = 15) and support (n = 3). Familiar care settings (n = 2) and effective administration (n = 20) were key organisational-level factors. Staff attitudes and education (n = 23) and individual patient knowledge, attitudes and practices (n = 10) can influence teledentistry adoption while complex medical conditions (n = 8) may pose a challenge. CONCLUSION Key factors in the uptake of teledentistry among older adults span across policy, community, organisational, interpersonal and individual factors. Commonly reported barriers included technical issues, lack of funding, consent issues and cognitive impairments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Hui Xuan Tan
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,School of Health and Social Sciences (Oral Health Therapy), Nanyang Polytechnic, Singapore, Singapore.,Policy Research and Evaluation Division, Ministry of Health, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Chee Weng Yong
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, National University Centre for Oral Health Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yew Yoong Ding
- Geriatric Education and Research Institute, Singapore, Singapore.,Department of Geriatric Medicine, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ben-Omran MO, Livinski AA, Kopycka-Kedzierawski DT, Boroumand S, Williams D, Weatherspoon DJ, Iafolla TJ, Fontelo P, Dye BA. The use of teledentistry in facilitating oral health for older adults: A scoping review. J Am Dent Assoc 2021; 152:998-1011.e17. [PMID: 34521539 DOI: 10.1016/j.adaj.2021.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Teledentistry is used in many countries to provide oral health care services. However, using teledentistry to provide oral health care services for older adults is not well documented. This knowledge gap needs to be addressed, especially when accessing a dental clinic is not possible and teledentistry might be the only way for many older adults to receive oral health care services. TYPES OF STUDIES REVIEWED Nine databases were searched and 3,396 studies were screened using established eligibility criteria. Included studies were original research or review articles in which the intervention of interest was delivered to an older adult population (≥ 60 years) via teledentistry. The authors followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Review criteria. RESULTS Nineteen studies were identified that met the criteria for inclusion. Only 1 study was from the United States. Seven studies had results focusing on older adult participants only, with most of those conducted in elder care facilities. The remainder consisted of studies with mixed-age populations reporting distinct results or information for older adults. The included studies used teledentistry, in both synchronous and asynchronous modes, to provide services such as diagnosis, oral hygiene promotion, assessment and referral of oral emergencies, and postintervention follow-up. CONCLUSIONS AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS Teledentistry comprises a variety of promising apps. The authors identified and described uses, promising possibilities, and limitations of teledentistry to improve the oral health of older adults.
Collapse
|
18
|
Subhan R, Ismail WA, Musharraf S, Khan M, Hafeez R, Alam MK. Teledentistry as a Supportive Tool for Dentists in Pakistan. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:8757859. [PMID: 34540998 PMCID: PMC8443341 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8757859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The current scenario of the COVID-19 pandemic has forced dentists to seek different options for delivering healthcare services other than the in-person direct examination in clinical practice. Teledentistry is one of the options for remote patient care and monitoring. Objective. The present survey was conducted to assess the knowledge and perception of the dentists in Pakistan regarding teledentistry as an emergent supportive tool. Materials and Methods. A self-administered, close-ended, and prevalidated survey questionnaire was used, comprising 21 questions, and distributed electronically via e-mail, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger to evaluate the knowledge and perception of dentists regarding teledentistry. The data collected was compiled in a systematic manner and analyzed in terms of frequency (yes/no). Results. Out of a total of 350 dentists, 325 responded to the questionnaire, and it was seen that 62.5% of them did not have knowledge about teledentistry prior to COVID-19. 65.8% of dentists considered the practice of teledentistry in nonpandemic situations in the future. Conclusion. In the present study, it was observed that most of the dental professionals had inadequate knowledge about teledentistry before COVID-19, but the awareness and perception regarding teledentistry were currently satisfactory among the dental professionals in Pakistan. This emerging trend gives a positive hope for the implementation of teledentistry in the healthcare setup of Pakistan in the near future, as it will prove to be beneficial for safe dental practice during times of pandemic and even after.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rootab Subhan
- Department of Periodontics, Shifa College of Dentistry, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Waleed A. Ismail
- Department of Periodontics, Shifa College of Dentistry, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
- Periodontics Unit, School of Dental Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Sadia Musharraf
- Department of Periodontics, Shifa College of Dentistry, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Mylla Khan
- Department of Periodontics, Shifa College of Dentistry, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Resham Hafeez
- Department of Periodontology, Army Medical College, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi 46000, Pakistan
| | - Mohammad Khursheed Alam
- Department of Preventive Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al Jouf 72345, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Fonseca BB, Perdoncini NN, da Silva VC, Gueiros LAM, Carrard VC, Lemos CA, Schussel JL, Amenábar JM, Torres-Pereira CC. Telediagnosis of oral lesions using smartphone photography. Oral Dis 2021; 28:1573-1579. [PMID: 34289201 DOI: 10.1111/odi.13972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this observational study was to evaluate telediagnosis of oral lesions using smartphone photography. MATERIALS AND METHODS Individuals with visible oral lesions composed a convenience sample. The lesions were photographed using a smartphone camera and emailed along with clinical information to three evaluators, who formulated up to two diagnostic hypotheses for each case. A total of 235 photographs from 113 clinical cases were obtained. The evaluators answered questions regarding referral decisions, requests for additional tests, diagnostic difficulties, and image quality. The diagnostic hypotheses were compared to the gold standard by means of percent agreement and kappa coefficient. Consensual face-to-face diagnoses of three specialists-when only a clinical diagnosis was necessary-or histopathological results-when a biopsy was necessary-were considered the gold standard. RESULTS The telediagnosis was similar to the gold standard in 76% of the cases, and kappa coefficients showed almost perfect agreement (k = 0.817-0.903). The evaluators considered that referrals could have been avoided on an average of 35,4% of the cases. CONCLUSION Diagnosis of oral lesions using images taken with a smartphone showed almost perfect agreement and diagnostic accuracy comparable to face-to-face diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Basso Fonseca
- Department of Stomatology, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Nicole Nichele Perdoncini
- Department of Stomatology, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Victor Cordeiro da Silva
- Department of Stomatology, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Luiz Alcino Monteiro Gueiros
- Department of Clinic and Preventive Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Vinicius Coelho Carrard
- Oral Pathology Department, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Celso Augusto Lemos
- Department of Oral Medicine, School of Dentistry, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Juliana Lucena Schussel
- Department of Stomatology, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - José Miguel Amenábar
- Department of Stomatology, School of Dentistry, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Jo O, Kruger E, Tennant M. Dental specialist workforce and distribution in the United Kingdom: a specialist map. Br Dent J 2021:10.1038/s41415-021-3167-9. [PMID: 34239056 DOI: 10.1038/s41415-021-3167-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Objectives To illustrate, identify and assess a contemporary model of the geographic distribution of specialist dentists in relation to population age groups and rurality.Methods All UK dental specialists registered with the General Dental Council were extracted and paired with publicly available locations of work. Geographic information system tools were used to map specialist locations against population and rural-urban classifications of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The latest 2019 population estimates and health board areas were superimposed to create a specialist map. All other data were collected at the smallest geographic statistical areas and corresponding population data from the latest census.Results A total of 4,439 specialist titles were held by 3,041 individuals, linked to 3,459 unique locations of work. Specialist locations were mapped against 135 Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) of England, seven Local Health Boards of Wales, 14 Health Boards of Scotland and five Health and Social Care Trusts of Northern Ireland. NHS Central London CCG had the highest specialist dentists per 100,000 people at 118.9; paediatric dentists per 20,000 children at 6.4; orthodontic dentists per 20,000 schoolchildren at 23.2; oral surgery dentists at 4.8 per 20,000 adults; and prosthodontic dentists at 7.2 per 20,000 adults. Orthodontics and oral surgery had the highest specialist-to-population ratios at 1:45,545 and 1:77,510, compared to oral and maxillofacial radiology and oral microbiology with the lowest ratios of 1:2,178,316 and 1:9,024,452, respectively. In England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, there were 79.5% (n = 42,140,039), 55.6% (n = 1,703,248), 46.9% (n = 2,481,996) and 42.9% (n = 776,295) of the respective populations that lived within 2.5 km of a specialist location. There were significant disparities in rural proximity to specialist locations across all nations. In Scotland, 40.8% of the rural population lived outside 10 km of a specialist location.Conclusions Stark inequalities exist in the geographic distribution of UK specialist dentists and high disparities were found in accessing a specialist, especially for vulnerable populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Jo
- School of Human Sciences, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Perth, 6009, Australia.
| | - Estie Kruger
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Nedlands, Perth, 6009, Australia; International Research Collaborative Oral Health and Equity, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Perth, 6009, Australia
| | - Marc Tennant
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Nedlands, Perth, 6009, Australia; International Research Collaborative Oral Health and Equity, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Crawley, Perth, 6009, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Amtha R, Gunardi I, Astoeti TE, Roeslan MO. Satisfaction Level of the Oral Medicine Patients Using Teledentistry During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Factor Analysis. J Int Soc Prev Community Dent 2021; 11:414-420. [PMID: 34430503 PMCID: PMC8352063 DOI: 10.4103/jispcd.jispcd_72_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this article is to describe oral medicine patients' satisfaction level with teledentistry services during COVID-19 pandemic by a factor analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS An observational cross-sectional study was conducted in the Oral Medicine Clinic in 31 patients who used teledentistry services at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic under informed consent. Questionnaire modification was validated with the Rasch model analysis and components that contribute to satisfaction were analyzed by the factor analysis. A total of satisfaction scores were then categorized into five levels (very dissatisfied; not satisfied; moderate; satisfied and very satisfied). RESULTS The questionnaire shows Cronbach's alpha of 0.83 and a reliability item of 0.95 with a separation of 4.49. The factor analysis shows two components that contribute to satisfaction, namely, components convenience and communication. One hundred percent of the subjects were in the satisfied and very satisfied categories. DISCUSSION The Rasch model can determine the validity and reliability of the questionnaire used more accurately. The components of convenience and communication are the main things that are considered when patients choose teledentistry services. CONCLUSION Oral medicine patients' satisfaction level with teledentistry services during the COVID-19 pandemic was 100% in the satisfied and very satisfied categories, with contributing factors being convenience and communication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rahmi Amtha
- Department of Oral Medicine, Universitas Trisakti, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Indrayadi Gunardi
- Department of Oral Medicine, Universitas Trisakti, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Tri Erri Astoeti
- Department of Dental and Public Health, Universitas Trisakti, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Wallace CK, Schofield CE, Burbridge LAL, O'Donnell KL. Role of teledentistry in paediatric dentistry. Br Dent J 2021:10.1038/s41415-021-3015-y. [PMID: 34172921 PMCID: PMC8231751 DOI: 10.1038/s41415-021-3015-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Introduction As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, teledentistry has been used more frequently due to social distancing regulations to minimise the need for face-to-face attendances. Aims Evaluate uses of teledentistry within Newcastle Dental Hospital's Paediatric Dentistry New Patient Service. Establishes potential roles of teledentistry within paediatric dentistry and advantages and disadvantages of this service method. Methods Service evaluation of 653 new patient teledentistry appointments at Newcastle Dental Hospital across a one-month period (13 May- 12 June 2020).Discussion By implementing a telephone consultation as the first point of contact with our team, we were able to reduce the number of face-to-face appointments required by over a third. Teledentistry can be used for numerous applications within paediatric dentistry including initial triage, remote assessment, reinforcement of prevention, implementing initial management and building rapport. Conclusion Teledentistry is an emerging field and has the potential to improve patient journeys, reduce waiting lists and reduce unnecessary face-to-face attendances which is especially important both within and beyond the current COVID-19 pandemic to maximise safety and minimise inconvenience for both parent and child. However, care must be taken to ensure a clinician is confident in their diagnosis prior to discharging or delaying management of a patient.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher K Wallace
- Paediatric Dentistry, The Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle Dental Hospital, Richardson Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE2 4AZ, UK.
| | - Charlotte E Schofield
- Paediatric Dentistry, The Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle Dental Hospital, Richardson Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE2 4AZ, UK
| | - Lucy A L Burbridge
- Paediatric Dentistry, The Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle Dental Hospital, Richardson Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE2 4AZ, UK
| | - Katherine L O'Donnell
- Paediatric Dentistry, The Newcastle upon Tyne NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle Dental Hospital, Richardson Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, NE2 4AZ, UK
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Flores APDC, Lazaro SA, Molina-Bastos CG, Guattini VLDO, Umpierre RN, Gonçalves MR, Carrard VC. Teledentistry in the diagnosis of oral lesions: A systematic review of the literature. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2021; 27:1166-1172. [PMID: 32568392 DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocaa069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this systematic review is to summarize information on the use of teledentistry in the diagnosis of oral lesions. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic literature search conducted in August 2018 included articles published until December 2018 in 4 databases. Two reviewers evaluated the search results separately. If they were uncertain as to whether to include an article, a third reviewer made the final decision. Studies related to the diagnosis of oral lesions using teledentistry were included. The methodological quality of the studies was analyzed using the Quality Assessment of Studies of Diagnostic Accuracy. RESULTS Eleven articles were included in the study. The selected articles were published between 1999 and 2018, predominantly in developing countries. The professionals acting as patient examiners are dental students and dentists, as well as other health professionals. Most of the patients evaluated in the studies were from rural populations or locations distant from large centers. The tools used to obtain patient data were smartphones, videoconference, email, questionnaires, histopathological exams, and telemedicine applications and systems. Most studies concluded that there is a high level of agreement between teledentistry and clinical consultation and that the use of this resource for diagnostic purposes can reduce costs and the travel time to consult a specialist personally. Nine of the 11 studies were of good quality. CONCLUSIONS Teledentistry has the potential to improve the care quality related to diagnosis and management of oral lesions, shortening distances between patients who need specialized diagnoses and specialists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Samara Andreolla Lazaro
- Oral Pathology Department, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | | | - Roberto Nunes Umpierre
- TelessaúdeRS-UFRGS, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Residence in Family and Community Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Rodrigues Gonçalves
- TelessaúdeRS-UFRGS, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Primary Health Care Service, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Vinicius Coelho Carrard
- Oral Pathology Department, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,TelessaúdeRS-UFRGS, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Department of Oral Medicine, Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
Introduction Objective Methods Results Conclusions
Collapse
|
25
|
Deshpande S, Patil D, Dhokar A, Bhanushali P, Katge F. Teledentistry: A Boon Amidst COVID-19 Lockdown-A Narrative Review. Int J Telemed Appl 2021; 2021:8859746. [PMID: 33628231 PMCID: PMC7894051 DOI: 10.1155/2021/8859746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The recent spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its associated coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has caused widespread public health concerns. Despite huge efforts to contain the disease spread, it is still on the rise because of the community spread pattern of this infection. In order to prevent the community spread, a nationwide lockdown was implemented, due to which many restrictions were imposed on movements of citizens within the country. Since the dental professionals were at the forefront of acquiring the infection, the majority of the dental clinics were shut for routine dental procedures. Only emergency treatment was provided to the patients. However, due to restrictions in movement, it was difficult for the patients to visit the clinics for routine check-ups. This was overcome by the advancements in technology which has a major impact on medicine. Due to increased usage of smartphones and related software applications, the clinical data exchange was facilitated between patients and clinicians which has been termed as "teledentistry." Teledentistry is a combination of telecommunications and dentistry, involving the exchange of clinical information and images for dental consultation and treatment planning. This technology served as a boon for the dentists to manage dental emergencies during the lockdown period. This narrative review discusses teledentistry and its applications in general and specialty dental practice amidst the COVID-19 lockdown.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shantanu Deshpande
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, TPCT's Terna Dental College, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Devendra Patil
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, TPCT's Terna Dental College, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Amol Dhokar
- Department of Oral Medicine, Diagnosis and Radiology, TPCT's Terna Dental College, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Parin Bhanushali
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, TPCT's Terna Dental College, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Farhin Katge
- Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry, TPCT's Terna Dental College, Navi Mumbai, India
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Perdoncini NN, Schussel JL, Amenábar JM, Torres-Pereira CC. Use of smartphone video calls in the diagnosis of oral lesions: Teleconsultations between a specialist and patients assisted by a general dentist. J Am Dent Assoc 2021; 152:127-135. [PMID: 33494867 DOI: 10.1016/j.adaj.2020.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Teleassistance in dentistry enables the support of dentists in areas without access to specialists. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and accuracy of synchronous teleconsultation in oral medicine. METHODS Patients referred for specialized care owing to oral lesions were evaluated in person by a general dentist who obtained photographs of the lesions with a smartphone. The images were sent via a mobile application to an oral medicine specialist, with whom a video call was initiated on the same instant messaging application. After interviewing the patient, the specialist formulated a diagnostic hypothesis and suggestions for case management. Then a second specialist, blinded to the first evaluation, assessed the oral lesion in person and defined a diagnosis, which was considered as the reference standard. Diagnoses from the remote and the face-to-face consultations were compared in percentage levels of agreement and κ coefficient. RESULTS Thirty-three patients, 25 through 83 years old, had 41 oral lesions. The average teleconsultation length was approximately 10 minutes. In 92.7% of the cases, there was concordance between the telediagnosis and the reference standard (κ = 0.922). CONCLUSIONS Synchronous teleconsultation can provide reliable remote diagnosis through the support to primary care health care professionals in management of oral lesions. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS Earlier diagnosis of malignancies, improvement of access for unassisted populations, and reduction of unnecessary referrals are possible practical implications of remote support of a specialist in the management and diagnosis of oral lesions.
Collapse
|
27
|
Almazrooa SA, Mansour GA, Alhamed SA, Ali SA, Akeel SK, Alhindi NA, Felemban OM, Mawardi HH, Binmadi NO. The application of teledentistry for Saudi patients' care: A national survey study. J Dent Sci 2021; 16:280-286. [PMID: 33384810 PMCID: PMC7770252 DOI: 10.1016/j.jds.2020.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Teledentistry has emerged as a new communication tool in various dental disciplines around the world. The aim of this study was to investigate the applicability and reliability of teledentistry in the field of diagnostic dentistry and explore the perception of Saudi dentists of its benefits and concerns. MATERIALS AND METHODS An electronic survey with 40 questions was developed, validated and distributed electronically by email and social media channels to dentists from different specialty in Saudi Arabia. Collected data were analyzed for statistical significance. RESULTS A total of 148 dentists completed the survey. The current data demonstrated that 50% of study participants have had applied teledentistry in their clinical practice. Out of all, 90% have computers in their dental offices and 72% have been using electronic medical records in which radiographs and clinical images are uploaded. Most participants had smart phones (91%), in which they were used more commonly (74.3%) than conventional cameras (54.1%) to capture and share patients' clinical images over communication applications (74.3%) and less likely through emails (62.2%). Overall, 83% were confident that teledentistry can improve daily dental practice, specifically in the fields of oral radiology followed by endodontics and oral medicine. CONCLUSION Teledentistry is an emerging tool with potential to improve the delivery of diagnostic dental care for communities with limited or no access to dental specialists. As of today, teledentistry has not been truly implemented by the Saudi dental community. Development of national programs to educate the public and promote teledentistry among dental practitioners are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Soulafa A. Almazrooa
- Department of Oral and Diagnostic Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Dentistry, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghada A. Mansour
- Department of Oral and Diagnostic Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Dentistry, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sana A. Alhamed
- Department of Oral and Diagnostic Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Dentistry, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah A. Ali
- Department of Oral and Diagnostic Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Dentistry, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sara K. Akeel
- Department of Oral and Diagnostic Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Dentistry, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nada A. Alhindi
- Department of Oral and Diagnostic Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Dentistry, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama M. Felemban
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Dentistry, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hani H. Mawardi
- Department of Oral and Diagnostic Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Dentistry, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nada O. Binmadi
- Department of Oral and Diagnostic Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Faculty of Dentistry, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Sanghvi R, Barrow S, Hullah E, De Souza M, Cook R, Siddik D. Paediatric dental-oral medicine clinic: management during COVID 19. JOURNAL OF ORAL MEDICINE AND ORAL SURGERY 2020. [DOI: 10.1051/mbcb/2020064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Minimising spread of the COVID-19 infection through reducing face-to-face consults is essential. In doing so, alternative assessment and communication methods for management of patients with oral conditions should be considered. Material and methods: Patients on the waiting list for the joint oral medicine-paediatric dental clinic between March and June 2020 were prioritised based on a criteria including relevant medical history, diagnosis and clinical need and current management − monitoring, topical therapy or systemic therapy. A telephone consult method was chosen to assess and follow up patients and a parental satisfaction questionnaire was conducted following telephone consult. Results: Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) was the most common diagnosis of patients reviewed on the telephone clinic. Overall, the patient satisfaction questionnaire revealed that 100% of respondents would prefer a telephone consult during COVID-19 rather than face-to-face appointments. 74% opted for a video consult in preference to a telephone consult. Conclusion: This service evaluation has found telephone consults to be a valuable alternative to face-to-face consults in the management of patients with chronic oral mucosal diseases. Telephone consultations have high parental satisfaction and are an effective, convenient method to assess and follow up patients whilst maintaining their safety during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
|
29
|
Dental Care Access and the Elderly: What Is the Role of Teledentistry? A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17239053. [PMID: 33291719 PMCID: PMC7729836 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17239053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
A high level of unmet oral health needs is very common among elderly people. In a society that is getting older and that has been hit so hard by the coronavirus pandemic, the development of new strategies aimed at enhancing general and oral health status should be crucial in order to promote healthy aging. The aim of this systematic review is to assess the feasibility of Teledentistry in communities or in a domiciliary setting where elderly people live. A structured and systematic research was performed on the major electronic databases for studies published in English until 30 June 2020: the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, and CINAHL databases. A total of 13 articles were identified through database searching using combinations of keywords. Out of 13 papers, eight abstracts were reviewed to assess if they were coherent with the aim of the study, and full texts were retrieved. After abstract reviews, seven articles were selected for closer inspection. Of these, six were assessed for eligibility. Four papers were aimed at assessing patients and health practitioners experiences about Teledentistry, three studies reported a cost analysis and cost description of Teledentistry in residential aged care facilities, and two studies investigated the feasibility and accuracy of Teledentistry for diagnosis dental pathology. The implementation of Teledentistry in residential aged care facilities and in home-assistance programs could be a viable tool for the management of oral care in people who cannot access dental care.
Collapse
|
30
|
Abbas B, Wajahat M, Saleem Z, Imran E, Sajjad M, Khurshid Z. Role of Teledentistry in COVID-19 Pandemic: A Nationwide Comparative Analysis among Dental Professionals. Eur J Dent 2020; 14:S116-S122. [PMID: 33383589 PMCID: PMC7775233 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1722107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess knowledge, awareness, and practice of health care workers about the role of teledentistry in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). MATERIALS AND METHODS A prevalidated structured questionnaire was used to evaluate awareness of general dentists, postgraduate dental students, dental educators, and consultants with postgraduation degrees toward teledentistry. The acceptability, reliability, and language clarity were also pretested. A total of 510 dental professionals contributed to this study. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS A statistical analysis using SPSS (version 20.0) was performed. Responses were noted as yes or no. A p-value of ≤ 0.05 was considered to be significant. Frequencies described data. Chi-square test was performed for intergroup comparison to evaluate if the knowledge and attitude diverge with the increase in the level of seniority in the profession. RESULTS Awareness regarding teledentistry is high among general dentists with bachelor of dental surgery qualification in comparison to final-year students and postgraduate dental students. The majority of participants agreed with improvement in health care (88.20%), access to rural areas (82.90%), and general practicing dentist agreed with statistically significant difference (0.00) on saving time by teledentistry. CONCLUSION General practicing dentist was observed with high awareness of teledentistry as compared with postgraduate and undergraduate dental students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beenish Abbas
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Foundation University, College of Dentistry, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Mehreen Wajahat
- Department of Dental Materials, Avicenna Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Zakia Saleem
- Department of Dental Education, University College of Dentistry, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Eisha Imran
- Department of Dental Materials, Dental College, HITEC-Institute of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Mehvish Sajjad
- Department of Dental Materials, Avicenna Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Zohaib Khurshid
- Department of Prosthodontics and Dental Implantology, College of Dentistry, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Crawford E, Taylor N. The effective use of an e-dentistry service during the COVID-19 crisis. J Orthod 2020; 47:330-337. [DOI: 10.1177/1465312520949557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In 2020, we experienced the largest disruption to normal life recorded in recent years with the COVID-19 global pandemic. Creative thinking was required to ensure patient care was maintained. In this article, we share a service evaluation and experiences dealing with the crisis through using a virtual office approach with video conferencing to manage emergency consultations, treatment reviews, new patient and multidisciplinary clinics in a hospital orthodontic unit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Crawford
- Orthodontic Department, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, UK
- Eastman Dental Hospital, UCLH Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Nigel Taylor
- Orthodontic Department, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, UK
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Lv N, Sun M, Polonowita A, Mei L, Guan G. Management of oral medicine emergencies during COVID-19: A study to develop practise guidelines. J Dent Sci 2020; 16:493-500. [PMID: 32837687 PMCID: PMC7413161 DOI: 10.1016/j.jds.2020.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has become a significant global public health concern. Since the announcement of the Public Health Emergency of International Concern, many countries have implemented lockdown and restrictive quarantines; therefore, routine dentistry, as well as oral medicine practise, have been suspended in several countries. However, urgent oral cares and emergencies are still operated and delivered by on-call dental practitioners. The objective of this study was to investigate the management of oral medicine emergency during a viral pandemic such as COVID-19. During the lockdown period, digital technologies, such as video conferencing with Zoom, Google Meeting or WhatsApp, are useful and efficient tools that oral medicine practitioners could consider to use for patient triage, managing emergencies, reassure, and follow patients remotely. Oral medicine emergencies can be carefully evaluated and triaged via video conferencing and sometimes phone contact, to avoid life-threatening risks while realising the limitations by both patient and clinician.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Na Lv
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.,Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Ming Sun
- Department of Stomatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Ajith Polonowita
- Department of Oral Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Li Mei
- Department of Oral Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Guangzhao Guan
- Department of Oral Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Dziedzic A, Varoni EM. Challenges of oral medicine specialists at the time of COVID-19 pandemic. Oral Dis 2020; 28 Suppl 1:904-907. [PMID: 32614499 PMCID: PMC7362159 DOI: 10.1111/odi.13520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Arkadiusz Dziedzic
- Department of Conservative Dentistry with Endodontics, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Elena M Varoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Chirurgiche ed Odontoiatriche, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
da Costa CB, Peralta FDS, Ferreira de Mello ALS. How Has Teledentistry Been Applied in Public Dental Health Services? An Integrative Review. Telemed J E Health 2019; 26:945-954. [PMID: 31573410 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2019.0122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There are inequities in the provision of oral health care, and a large proportion of the population face challenges in accessing public dental health care options. Introduction: Teledentistry (TD), a new branch of telemedicine dedicated to dentistry, is a potential approach that can be used to overcome these challenges. Therefore, the purpose of this integrative review was to collect information regarding the inclusion of the application of TD tools in the public dental health services. Methods: Five electronic databases (PubMed/Medline, Virtual Health Library, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for relevant articles if they reported on original data related to the use of TD in public dental health services. Results/Discussion: Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria and were, consequently, included in the review. Our key findings indicated that TD can be used for training and continuing education of professionals, for remote patient care, to exchange information among health professionals, and orientation. It increases the access to dental care and enables general practitioners to interact with specialties. The benefits include cost-effective health equity services, improve dental knowledge, and reduce consultation waiting time. However, despite the advances made with the use of this technology, there are still some obstacles to overcome, such as limited infrastructure, low levels of motivation and the lack of compliance, professional resistance, and legal and security issues. Conclusion: TD may be very a useful tool for dental public health increasing the quality of the care by improving access, professional education, and patient satisfaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christine Böhm da Costa
- Post Graduation Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Felipe da Silva Peralta
- Post Graduation Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Pentapati KC, Siddiq H. Clinical applications of intraoral camera to increase patient compliance - current perspectives. Clin Cosmet Investig Dent 2019; 11:267-278. [PMID: 31692486 PMCID: PMC6712211 DOI: 10.2147/ccide.s192847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Technological advancements in the field of dentistry have reformed the concept of photography as a powerful medium of expression and communication. It also offers a spectrum of perception, interpretation, and execution. One of the widespread clinical applications of computerization in dentistry today is the intraoral camera (IOC). It helps in the revelation of the hidden and overlooked defects in teeth and other parts of the cavity. Dental world constitutes of microstructures that have to be recorded in a detailed manner to perform patient education, documentation of records and treatment, illustration of lectures, publication and web connectivity of complicated cases. This review emphasizes the significant applications of IOC in dentistry and its possible impact on patient compliance for dental care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalyana-Chakravarthy Pentapati
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | - Hanan Siddiq
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Haron N, Zain RB, Ramanathan A, Abraham MT, Liew CS, Ng KG, Cheng LC, Husin RB, Chong SMY, Thangavalu LA, Mat A, Ismail HB, Mahalingam SA, Cheong SC. m-Health for Early Detection of Oral Cancer in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Telemed J E Health 2019; 26:278-285. [PMID: 31081720 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2018.0285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Up to 86% of oral cancer (OC) patients present at the late stage where survival is dismal. Limited access to specialist diagnosis is a significant factor for late presentation. The increasing use of smartphones presents an opportunity to use digital technology to facilitate early detection of OC. Aim: To evaluate the feasibility of using Mobile Mouth Screening Anywhere (MeMoSA®) to facilitate early detection of OC. Methods: A mobile phone app named MeMoSA was developed and the feasibility of integrating this for documentation of oral lesions, and communication between dentists and specialists for management decisions were evaluated. The experience of dentists and specialists in using MeMoSA was determined using qualitative questionnaires. Results: Communication between specialist and dentists using MeMoSA stratified cases and streamlined referral of patients. Twelve of 48 patients were found to have oral lesions or signs suspicious of cancer and 3 required referrals. The patient's compliance for referral was tracked with MeMoSA. All dentists agreed that MeMoSA could facilitate early detection of OC and believed that MeMoSA could assist in the identification of oral mucosal lesions through direct communication with specialists and continuous learning in the recognition of high-risk lesions. Conclusions: MeMoSA has the potential to be used to promote equitable health care and streamline patient management that could result in early detection of OC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nabihah Haron
- Head and Neck Cancer Research Team, Cancer Research Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Rosnah Binti Zain
- Faculty of Dentistry, Saujana Putra Campus, MAHSA University, Selangor, Malaysia.,Oral Cancer Research and Coordinating Centre, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Anand Ramanathan
- Oral Cancer Research and Coordinating Centre, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.,Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mannil Thomas Abraham
- Oral Surgery Clinic, Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia.,Oral Health Program, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Chee Sun Liew
- Data Intensive Computing Centre, Research Management and Innovation Complex, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kheng Ghee Ng
- Data Intensive Computing Centre, Research Management and Innovation Complex, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Lai Choo Cheng
- Oral Health Program, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | | | - Sherrie Mei Yee Chong
- Oral Surgery Clinic, Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia.,Oral Health Program, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | | | - Azizah Mat
- Oral Health Program, Ministry of Health Malaysia, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | | | | | - Sok Ching Cheong
- Head and Neck Cancer Research Team, Cancer Research Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Vinayagamoorthy K, Acharya S, Kumar M, Pentapati KC, Acharya S. Efficacy of a remote screening model for oral potentially malignant disorders using a free messaging application: A diagnostic test for accuracy study. Aust J Rural Health 2019; 27:170-176. [PMID: 30942518 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.12496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 12/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the feasibility of using a remote sensing model as a free messaging application tool in the preventive screening of oral potentially malignant disorders in a rural area of India. DESIGN An observational cross-sectional study. SETTING Primary care setting in Udupi District, Karnataka, South India. PARTICIPANTS One-hundred and thirty-one individuals with a mean (SD) age of 37.34 (11.31) years, of whom 64.1% and 35.9% were men and women, respectively. INTERVENTIONS Clinical oral examination followed by photo capture of five areas of the patients' mouth. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Reliability measures for the use of a photo messaging service in diagnosing oral potentially malignant disorders, as compared to the clinical examination. RESULTS When lesions were categorised as normal and abnormal, the reliability (kappa) between the diagnoses, based on photo messaging and clinical oral examination, was 0.68 and 0.67 for Examiners 1 and 2, respectively. The sensitivity values for Examiners 1 and 2 were 98.5% and 99.04%, respectively, whereas the specificity was 72% and 64%, respectively. When the agreement between photo messaging and clinical oral examination for an exact diagnostic match was assessed, the reliability (kappa) was 0.59 and 0.55 for Examiners 1 and 2, respectively. The sensitivity values for Examiners 1 and 2 were 98.1% and 98.7%, respectively, whereas the specificity was 64% and 52% respectively. CONCLUSION There was a substantial agreement between the diagnosis based on clinical examination and WhatsApp image for both the examiners, when the lesions were dichotomised as normal and abnormal, but slightly reduced when assessed for the exact diagnostic match. Screening for oral potentially malignant disorders using photo messaging can serve as an effective adjunct and a potential cost-effective tool in a low-resource setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kalaiselvi Vinayagamoorthy
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Shruthi Acharya
- Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Mathangi Kumar
- Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Kalyana Chakravarthy Pentapati
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Shashidhar Acharya
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Caffery L, Bradford N, Meurer M, Smith A. Association between patient age, geographical location, Indigenous status and hospitalisation for oral and dental conditions in Queensland, Australia. Aust J Prim Health 2019; 23:46-52. [PMID: 27418405 DOI: 10.1071/py15105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
A retrospective analysis of hospitalisation due to oral and dental conditions (ODC) was performed for patients in Queensland. The aim was to identify the rate and cost of hospitalisation and to examine the association between hospitalisation and age, geographical location and Indigenous status. There were 81528 admissions to Queensland's hospitals due to ODC during the 3-year study period (2011-2013). The annual cost of ODC-related hospitalisation was estimated to be AU$87million. Indigenous infants (Z=4.08, P<0.001) and primary school children (Z=2.01, P=0.046) were significantly more likely to be hospitalised than their non-Indigenous counterparts. A non-Indigenous high school child was almost fourfold more likely to be hospitalised. There was no significant difference in the rate of hospitalisation for adults. Infants (Z=6.70, P<0.001) and primary school children (Z=8.73, P<0.001) from remote areas were significantly more likely to be hospitalised than their age-matched metropolitan counterparts. Whereas high school children (Z=2.74, P=0.006) and adults (Z=6.02, P<0.001) from remote areas were significantly less likely to be hospitalised. Our findings suggest that there is a need for alternative models of primary dental care to service remote areas of Queensland and Indigenous populations. Strategies that enable Indigenous Health Workers to provide dental care, and the use of teledentistry, are models of care that may reduce potentially preventable hospitalisations and lead to cost savings and better health outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liam Caffery
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Ground Floor, Building 33, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102, Australia
| | - Natalie Bradford
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Ground Floor, Building 33, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102, Australia
| | - Maria Meurer
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Santa Catarina, 88040-900 Florianópolis, SC, Brazil
| | - Anthony Smith
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Ground Floor, Building 33, Woolloongabba, Qld 4102, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
AlShaya MS, Assery MK, Pani SC. Reliability of mobile phone teledentistry in dental diagnosis and treatment planning in mixed dentition. J Telemed Telecare 2018; 26:45-52. [PMID: 30134778 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x18793767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of the study was to test the reliability of mobile phone teledentistry in the diagnosis and treatment planning of dental caries of children in mixed dentition. METHODS A total of 57 cases, aged 6-12 years, among six examiners were used yielding 342 comparisons. The patients were examined by a dentist who was calibrated in the recording of oral findings in children using the World Health Organization (WHO) oral health assessment form for children (version 2013), which served as the gold standard for diagnosis. Six paediatric dentists calibrated using the same WHO form served as the teledentistry group and made their diagnoses using only the images sent to them without the use of radiographs. The pictures obtained were stored on an online cloud platform (Google Drive). The sharing links for these pictures were forwarded to participating dentists using a social media application (WhatsApp Messenger, Facebook Corp., Mountain View, CA). RESULTS This study showed greater sensitivity than specificity, and though both sensitivity and specificity were constantly above 80%, it can be stated that the current model has a higher chance of false positive results than false negative results. The reliability of teledentistry in this study is greater in primary teeth than in permanent teeth. DISCUSSION Although the use of teledentistry without radiographs is not as accurate as clinical examination, mobile phone teledentistry offers acceptable reliability for the initial diagnosis of caries in children.
Collapse
|
40
|
Carrard VC, Roxo Gonçalves M, Rodriguez Strey J, Pilz C, Martins M, Martins MD, Schmitz CA, Dal Moro RG, D'Ávila OP, Rados D, Harzheim E, Gonçalves MR. Telediagnosis of oral lesions in primary care: The EstomatoNet Program. Oral Dis 2018; 24:1012-1019. [PMID: 29505701 DOI: 10.1111/odi.12851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The diagnosis of oral lesions is often challenging for primary healthcare providers, which explains the high number of referrals to specialist care. This favors increases in waiting lines and delays in diagnosis, contributing to high mortality rates from oral cancer. This study aimed to summarize the experience of the EstomatoNet, a telediagnosis program catering to primary care dentists and physicians from southern Brazil. STUDY DESIGN This exploratory study included all queries received by EstomatoNet from June 2015 to December 2016. Health providers (71 dentists and 18 physicians from primary care) submitted requests including clinical information and photographs of oral lesions by means of a cloud-based platform. Specialized oral medicine teleconsultants received the data, conveyed a diagnostic hypothesis, and conveyed management recommendations. RESULTS Actinic cheilitis (n = 41, 15.8%), squamous cell carcinoma (n = 22, 8.5%), and inflammatory hyperplasia (21, 8.1%) were the most frequent diagnoses. Teleconsultants recommended referral to specialists in 42.9% of the cases, total biopsy in 23.6%, and follow-up in 16.2%. After the EstomatoNet use, the intention to refer the patients to face-to-face consultation reduced from 96.9% to 35.1%. CONCLUSION Telediagnosis for oral lesions is feasible and has potential to improve the quality of primary health care by bridging the gap between primary and specialized health care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V C Carrard
- Oral Pathology Department, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Telehealth, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - M Roxo Gonçalves
- Oral Pathology Department, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil.,Telehealth, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - J Rodriguez Strey
- Oral Pathology Department, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - C Pilz
- Telehealth, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Mat Martins
- Oral Pathology Department, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - M D Martins
- Oral Pathology Department, School of Dentistry, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - C A Schmitz
- Telehealth, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - R G Dal Moro
- Telehealth, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - O P D'Ávila
- Telehealth, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Drv Rados
- Telehealth, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - E Harzheim
- Telehealth, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - M R Gonçalves
- Telehealth, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Estai M, Winters J, Kanagasingam Y, Shiikha J, Checker H, Kruger E, Tennant M. Validity and reliability of remote dental screening by different oral health professionals using a store-and-forward telehealth model. Br Dent J 2018; 221:411-414. [PMID: 27713449 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bdj.2016.733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Objective This study was conducted to evaluate the validity and reliability of intraoral photographic assessments by different members of a dental team as a means for dental screening in children.Methods The intraoral photographic records of 126 children (2 to 18 years old) were obtained from routine clinical records taken before dental treatment. Intraoral photographs were obtained using a DSLR camera and then uploaded to a cloud-based server using store-and-forward telehealth technology. Images were reviewed by an expert panel to formulate a benchmark screening baseline, to which the screeners' data were compared. The photographic assessments conducted by a mid-level dental practitioner (MLDP) and dentist, were compared to the benchmark expert panel assessment.Results The screeners' assessments by means of intraoral photography, when compared to the expert panel assessment had a sensitivity value of 82-89% and specificity value of 97%. The inter-examiner agreement between the expert panel assessment and photographic method (assessed by a dentist and MLDP), was almost perfect, with a kappa score ranging from 0.82 to 0.88. The mean DFT/dft score for the children as determined by the expert panel's review and photographic assessment ranging from 5.41 to 5.79, with mean scores between the two assessment methods not significantly different (P = 0.746).Conclusion Our results suggested that oral health professionals (other than dentists) have the potential to screen for caries from intraoral photographs with the same diagnostic accuracy and reliability as dentists. This strategy has implications for supporting the use of MLDPs such as dental therapists or hygienists to screen for oral disease using telehealth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Estai
- International Research Collaborative - Oral Health and Equity, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia, Australia
| | - J Winters
- Dental Department, Princess Margaret Hospital, Australia
| | | | - J Shiikha
- International Research Collaborative - Oral Health and Equity, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia, Australia
| | - H Checker
- International Research Collaborative - Oral Health and Equity, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia, Australia
| | - E Kruger
- International Research Collaborative - Oral Health and Equity, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia, Australia
| | - M Tennant
- International Research Collaborative - Oral Health and Equity, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
de Almeida Geraldino R, Rezende LVMDL, da-Silva CQ, Almeida JCF. Remote diagnosis of traumatic dental injuries using digital photographs captured via a mobile phone. Dent Traumatol 2017; 33:350-357. [PMID: 28453886 DOI: 10.1111/edt.12347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intra-oral photographs have been aided diagnosis of several pathologies in teledentistry. Mobile phone cameras may produce high-quality photographs, presenting itself as a viable tool for remote diagnosis of traumatic dental injuries. AIM To evaluate the levels of interexaminer agreement in cases of traumatic dental injuries when comparing diagnoses conducted in person and remotely. MATERIAL AND METHODS The sample included 40 patients with 73 traumatized teeth, and a total of 90 diagnoses, who had presented to two dental clinics, one private, and the other public, in Brazil's Federal District. The dental history and clinical examination data were registered in electronic forms, and digital photographs were captured with a mobile phone camera and uploaded to a cloud drive. Six remote examiners formulated their diagnoses based solely on photographic analysis. Thereafter, they were provided with additional clinical data and asked to provide a second round of diagnoses. These diagnoses were compared to those conducted in person, which were considered the gold standard. The data were analyzed with Gwet's AC1 interexaminers' measure to evaluate the agreement between the in-surgery and remote diagnoses. RESULTS The levels of interexaminer agreement between the in-surgery and remote diagnoses formulated exclusively with images were 0.83 or higher (95% confidence interval: 0.73-0.91), and 0.93 or higher (95% confidence interval: 0.88-0.97), when clinical information was available. CONCLUSION The precision of the remote diagnoses was comparable to the diagnoses conducted in person. The levels of interexaminer agreement were higher when clinical data were included with the images. Mobile phones may be an effective tool for capturing images that assist in the remote diagnosis of traumatic dental injuries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Júlio César Franco Almeida
- Oral Health Unit - University Hospital, Health Sciences Faculty, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Haron N, Zain RB, Nabillah WM, Saleh A, Kallarakkal TG, Ramanathan A, Sinon SHM, Razak IA, Cheong SC. Mobile Phone Imaging in Low Resource Settings for Early Detection of Oral Cancer and Concordance with Clinical Oral Examination. Telemed J E Health 2017; 23:192-199. [DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2016.0128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nabihah Haron
- Outreach Team, Cancer Research Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Rosnah Binti Zain
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Oral Cancer Research and Coordinating Centre (OCRCC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wan Maria Nabillah
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Amyza Saleh
- Outreach Team, Cancer Research Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Thomas George Kallarakkal
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Oral Cancer Research and Coordinating Centre (OCRCC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Anand Ramanathan
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Oral Cancer Research and Coordinating Centre (OCRCC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Suraya Hani Mohd Sinon
- Department of Oral Pathology and Oral Medicine, Faculty of Dentistry, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ishak Abdul Razak
- Oral Cancer Research and Coordinating Centre (OCRCC), University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Community Oral Health & Clinical Prevention, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sok Ching Cheong
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Oral Cancer Research Team, Cancer Research Malaysia, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Adebayo B, Durey A, Slack-Smith LM. Role of information and communication technology in promoting oral health at residential aged care facilities. Aust J Prim Health 2017; 23:216-222. [DOI: 10.1071/py15168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Information and communication technology (ICT) can provide knowledge and clinical support to those working in residential aged care facilities (RACFs). This paper aims to: (1) review literature on ICT targeted at residents, staff and external providers in RACFs including general practitioners, dental and allied health professionals on improving residents’ oral health; (2) identify barriers and enablers to using ICT in promoting oral health at RACFs; and (3) investigate evidence of effectiveness of these approaches in promoting oral health. Findings from this narrative literature review indicate that ICT is not widely used in RACFs, with barriers to usage identified as limited training for staff, difficulties accessing the Internet, limited computer literacy particularly in older staff, cost and competing work demands. Residents also faced barriers including impaired cognitive and psychosocial functioning, limited computer literacy and Internet use. Findings suggest that more education and training in ICT to upskill staff and residents is needed to effectively promote oral health through this medium.
Collapse
|
45
|
McLaren SW, Kopycka-Kedzierawski DT, Nordfelt J. Accuracy of teledentistry examinations at predicting actual treatment modality in a pediatric dentistry clinic. J Telemed Telecare 2016; 23:710-715. [DOI: 10.1177/1357633x16661428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objectives The purpose of this study was to assess the accuracy of predicting dental treatment modalities for children seen initially by means of a live-video teledentistry consultation. Methods A retrospective dental record review was completed of 251 rural pediatric patients from the Finger Lakes region of New York State who had an initial teledentistry appointment with a board-certified pediatric dentist located remotely at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health in Rochester, NY. Proportions of children who were referred for specific treatment modalities and who completed treatment and proportions of children for whom the treatment recommendation was changed were calculated. Fisher’s exact test was used to assess statistical significance. Results The initial treatment modality was not changed for 221/251 (88%) children initially seen for a teledentistry consultation. Thirty (12%) children had the initial treatment modality changed, most frequently children who were initially suggested treatment with nitrous oxide. Based on the initial treatment modality, changes to a different treatment modality were statistically significant (Fisher’s exact test, p < 0.0001). Conclusions Our data suggest that the use of a live-video teledentistry consultation can be an effective way of predicting the best treatment modality for rural children with significant dental disease. A live-video teledentistry consultation can be an effective intervention to facilitate completion of complex treatment plans for children from a rural area that have extensive dental needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sean W McLaren
- Division of Pediatric Dentistry, Eastman Institute for Oral Health, University of Rochester, USA
| | | | - Jed Nordfelt
- Division of Pediatric Dentistry, Eastman Institute for Oral Health, University of Rochester, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Daniel SJ, Kumar S. Comparison of dental hygienists and dentists: clinical and teledentistry identification of dental caries in children. Int J Dent Hyg 2016; 15:e143-e148. [DOI: 10.1111/idh.12232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- SJ Daniel
- G.W. Hirschfeld School of Dental Hygiene; Old Dominion University; Norfolk VA USA
| | - S Kumar
- Department of Health Informatics and Information Management; University of Tennessee Health Science Center; Memphis TN USA
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Estai M, Kanagasingam Y, Huang B, Checker H, Steele L, Kruger E, Tennant M. The efficacy of remote screening for dental caries by mid-level dental providers using a mobile teledentistry model. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2016; 44:435-41. [DOI: 10.1111/cdoe.12232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2016] [Accepted: 03/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Estai
- International Research Collaborative - Oral Health and Equity; School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology; University of Western Australia; Crawley WA Australia
| | | | - Boyen Huang
- School of Dentistry and Health Sciences; Charles Sturt University; Orange NSW Australia
| | - Hellen Checker
- International Research Collaborative - Oral Health and Equity; School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology; University of Western Australia; Crawley WA Australia
| | - Lesley Steele
- Faculty of Health Sciences; University of Adelaide; Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Estie Kruger
- International Research Collaborative - Oral Health and Equity; School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology; University of Western Australia; Crawley WA Australia
| | - Marc Tennant
- International Research Collaborative - Oral Health and Equity; School of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology; University of Western Australia; Crawley WA Australia
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
WhatsApp: a telemedicine platform for facilitating remote oral medicine consultation and improving clinical examinations. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol 2016; 121:248-54. [DOI: 10.1016/j.oooo.2015.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
49
|
Estai M, Kruger E, Tennant M. Role of telemedicine and mid-level dental providers in expanding dental-care access: potential application in rural Australia. Int Dent J 2016; 66:195-200. [PMID: 26846683 DOI: 10.1111/idj.12217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite great progress in oral health over the past three decades, the rates of caries remain high in Australia, particularly among underserved populations. The reasons for poor oral health amongst underserved populations are multiple, but rests with socio-economic determinants of health. The present review considers international workforce models that have been created to enhance the recruitment and retention of dental providers in rural areas. Several strategies have been developed to address care access problems in rural areas, including the use of telemedicine and mid-level dental providers (MLDPs). Despite ongoing opposition from dentistry organisations, the Alaska and Minnesota workforce models have proven that developing and deploying dental therapists from rural communities has the potential to address the unmet needs of underserved populations. It is more efficient and cost-effective for MLDPs to perform triage and treat simple cases and for dentists to treat complicated cases. The use of MLDPs is intended to increase the capacity of the dental workforce in areas that are too isolated to entice dentists. Telemedicine has emerged as one solution to address limited access to health care, particularly in locations where there is a lack of providers. Telemedicine not only provides access to care, but also offers support, consultations and access to continuing education for practicing dental providers in rural areas. This strategy has the potential to free up resources to increase care access and reduce oral health disparities, thereby contributing to closing the rural-urban oral health gap.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Estai
- International Research Collaborative, Oral Health and Equity, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Estie Kruger
- International Research Collaborative, Oral Health and Equity, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Marc Tennant
- International Research Collaborative, Oral Health and Equity, Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Human Biology, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Boringi M, Waghray S, Lavanya R, Babu DBG, Badam RK, Harsha N, Garlapati K, Chavva S. Knowledge and Awareness of Teledentistry among Dental Professionals - A Cross Sectional Study. J Clin Diagn Res 2015; 9:ZC41-4. [PMID: 26436045 DOI: 10.7860/jcdr/2015/13303.6320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 05/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of technology in the form of smart phones and other electronic media in day to day life has become an integral part of life today. Technology today is seeing a paradigm shift towards better inter-professional communications which can help doctors, patients and the masses as a whole. Putting these technological advancements to good use evolves as a major milestone in medicine/ dentistry in the form of telemedicine/teledentistry. AIM The present study was aimed at knowing the knowledge and awareness of teledentistry among dental professionals of a dental college in India. SETTINGS AND DESIGN The study was conducted in a dental college in India and was circulated among dental professionals. MATERIALS AND METHODS A questionnaire was prepared to assess the knowledge and awareness of teledentistry and was circulated among dental professionals in a dental college. The data thus collected was statistically analysed and results obtained. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS The data collected was statistically analysed using SPSS software. RESULTS A total of 406 persons responded to the questionnaire. In the present study it was found that the knowledge and awareness about teledentistry was very low among post graduates (7.23%) and interns (9.38%) when compared to I & II BDS while most of them agreed that teledentistry is a practice of dentistry through various media options with limited application in dentistry without a legal issue. CONCLUSION In the present study, it was apparent that most of the respondents were lacking adequate knowledge and awareness on teledentistry. Hence, there is an immense need to create awareness among dental professionals on teledentistry as the future lies in technological advancement. Tele dentistry can mark the beginning of a new era in dentistry. This can be achieved by conducting CDE programs and awareness campaigns/programs which helps in various levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mamatha Boringi
- Senior Lecturer, Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology, Panineeya Mahavidhyalaya College of Dental Sciences , Hyderabad, India
| | - Shefali Waghray
- Senior Lecturer, Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology, Panineeya Mahavidhyalaya College of Dental Sciences , Hyderabad, India
| | - Reddy Lavanya
- Senior Lecturer, Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology, Panineeya Mahavidhyalaya College of Dental Sciences , Hyderabad, India
| | - Dara Balaji Gandhi Babu
- Professor and Head of Department, Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology, Panineeya Mahavidhyalaya College of Dental Sciences , Hyderabad, India
| | - Raj Kumar Badam
- Reader, Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology, Panineeya Mahavidhyalaya College of Dental Sciences , Hyderabad, India
| | - Niharika Harsha
- Post Graduate, Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology, Panineeya Mahavidhyalaya College of Dental Sciences , Hyderabad, India
| | - Komali Garlapati
- Professor, Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology, Panineeya Mahavidhyalaya College of Dental Sciences , Hyderabad, India
| | - Sunanda Chavva
- Professor, Department of Oral Medicine & Radiology, Panineeya Mahavidhyalaya College of Dental Sciences , Hyderabad, India
| |
Collapse
|