A six-year study found virtual dental homes provide safe and effective dental care to residents who lack care, according to Science News.
San Francisco-based University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry developed the teledentistry system and evaluated its effect on 3,000 patients across California for the last six years.
Here are five things to know:
1. Researchers found virtual dental homes limit school absenteeism, diminish the need for parents to leave work to care for a child with a dental condition and help prevent dental problems for millions of Americans who lack dental care access.
2. The program received more than $5.5 million in federal and states to launch the virtual dental homes project.
3. Harmon Johnson Elementary School in North Sacramento was one of the first virtual dental homes. Of the school's students, almost all are eligible for Medi-Cal, the state's medical assistance program.
4. The report found dentists using the system determined dental hygienists in the community can meet the needs of nearly 33 percent of children and 50 percent of seniors and people with disabilities in long-term care facilities.
5. The program delivers better prevention and early intervention at less cost per patient as than the state's Denti-Cal system.
"California's children are facing an oral health care crisis," said Mayra Alvarez, president of The Children's Partnership, a California-based national children's advocacy organization. "The virtual dental home helps bring critical, comprehensive care to children where they are. With care in the community by oral health providers working at the top of their expertise, we are helping to better meet the diverse needs of California's children and families."
More dental news:
Danaher revenue totals $5.8B in Q2, Biolase operating margin totals 41% & more — 5 key notes
Aspen Dental opens Georgia practice: 4 quick facts
Global cosmetic dentistry market to hit $27.95B by 2024 — 6 things to know