As use of teledentistry spikes amid the pandemic, all dentists must understand the following facts, per the American Dental Association's teledentistry policy.
Seven things to know, per the ADA:
1. Teledentistry refers to the use of telehealth systems and methodologies in dentistry.
2. Teledentistry can include patient care and education using, but not limited to, live video, recorded health information through a secure electronic communications system, remote patient monitoring and mobile health.
3. Teledentistry treatment must be properly documented, and patients should be provided with a summary of services.
4. Any dentist delivering services using teledentistry must be licensed in the state where the patient receives services, or provide services as otherwise authorized by that state's dental board.
5. Relevant patient information must be collected before performing teledentistry services.
6. Teledentistry services should be consistent with in-person services.
7. Dental benefit plans and all other third-party payers — both public and private — should provide coverage for teledentistry services to the same extent that the services would be covered if provided in-person.