The Dentists Take

In the age of video calls, remote work, and on-demand everything, healthcare is also evolving. One of the biggest trends in modern dental care is the rise of teledentistry, a way for patients to connect with dentists virtually through secure video platforms, phone calls, or even text-based messaging.

While Crossings Dental does not currently offer teledentistry services, we are closely watching how these tools develop and how they might benefit our patients in the future. Your feedback helps guide our decisions and we’d love to hear what you think.

What Is Teledentistry?

Teledentistry allows patients to connect with dental professionals without physically visiting the office. It can include:

• Virtual consultations via video or phone

• Post-treatment check-ins (especially for clear aligners or healing after surgery)

• Second opinions for treatment options

• Remote evaluations of visible dental concerns (like chipped teeth or swollen gums) using photos or video

• Education and preventive guidance

Teledentistry doesn’t replace hands-on exams or treatments like cleanings, fillings, or X-rays. But it may serve as a convenient first step for asking questions, getting triage care, or exploring options.

Why Are Some Practices Offering Teledentistry?

There are several reasons why dental offices around the country have adopted virtual consults, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the need for remote services:

1. Convenience for Patients
   For people with busy schedules, limited mobility, or transportation challenges, teledentistry can make it easier to access advice without needing to come into the office for every concern.

2. Better Access in Rural Areas
   For patients in remote locations or underserved communities, virtual consultations may reduce travel time and increase access to licensed professionals.

3. Triage for Dental Emergencies
   A quick video call can help determine whether a chipped tooth, mild gum irritation, or toothache needs urgent in-person care, or if it can wait.

4. Increased Education and Comfort
   Some patients feel more relaxed discussing their concerns in a virtual setting, especially when exploring cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, or long-term treatment plans.

Things to Consider Before Using Virtual Dental Care

While teledentistry has clear potential, it also comes with limitations and important considerations:

• Hands-on Exams Still Matter
  Many dental conditions can only be properly diagnosed through in-person exams, X-rays, and tactile evaluations. A virtual consult is helpful—but it’s not a substitute for a full check-up.

• Privacy and Security
  Any practice offering teledentistry must use secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms to protect patient information. Patients should ask what systems are being used and how their data is handled.

• Quality and Consistency
  As teledentistry becomes more popular, not all platforms or services are created equal. Some quick-consult services are more transactional and less personalized. Ideally, virtual care should be provided by your established dental home, where your full history is known.

• Technology Barriers
  Not everyone is comfortable with video conferencing or uploading clear photos of their teeth. The quality of the virtual experience can depend on your camera, internet, and comfort level with technology.

Crossings Dental’s View: A Thoughtful Approach to Care

At Crossings Dental, we’re always looking for ways to improve how we care for you, not just with new tools, but with thoughtful, patient-centered decisions. While we don’t currently offer teledentistry, we recognize that it could provide value in some circumstances.

It’s important for us to note, we believe that nothing replaces a personal, hands-on relationship with your dentist. Your oral health is complex, and we believe in giving you the time, attention, and expertise that comes from face-to-face care in a safe and comfortable setting.

We’d Love to Hear from You

Your opinion matters. Would you find value in a virtual dental consult for quick questions, second opinions, or post-treatment check-ins useful? Have you used teledentistry elsewhere? What worked and what didn’t?

We invite you to share your thoughts the next time you’re in the office, or feel free to call and let us know your feedback. As always, our goal is to provide you with care that’s timely, compassionate, and tailored to your needs.

Whether in person or perhaps someday virtually, Crossings Dental is here to help you smile with confidence.