The 11 Best Teledentistry Companies of 2024

Sesame – Best Teledentist Overall

Sesame’s dynamic marketplace gives patients the tools to see a dentist, get an online dental consultation, and more – regardless of location, income, or insurance status.

Live Dentist — Most Convenient Teledentist

Live Dentist is a robust teledentistry platform that gives users access to affordable, quality dental care for general questions and emergencies, regardless of users’ location or the time of day.

DentalChat — Most Affordable Teledentist

With its low fees, including the ability to ask general questions for free, as well as its acceptance of many major dental insurance plans, DentalChat is an affordable teledentistry option.

Denteractive — Best Teledentist for 24/7 Care

Denteractive’s platform allows users to see available dentists virtually on a “walk-in” basis, regardless of the day or time, making this a convenient option for urgent dental needs.

Virtudent, Inc. — Best Teledentist Employee Dental Plan

Virtudent, Inc. can save employers and their employees time and money by bringing dental care directly to companies, through virtual consultations and on-site exams.

Aspen Dental — Best Teledentist for Insurance Coverage

If customers have dental insurance, a Health Savings Account, or a Flexible Spending Account, Aspen Dental is an optimal teledentistry option, as they accept all these forms of payment.

Toothpic — Best Teledentist Educational Resources

For patients who want to learn more about proper oral care, dental procedures, and common conditions, Toothpic has a large variety of educational resources.

The TeleDentists — Best for Finding an In-Person Dentist

In addition to helping patients virtually, The TeleDentists can also assist patients connect with a local in-person dentist to ensure that they receive comprehensive care.

Dentulu — Best Teledentist for Concierge Dentistry

For patients seeking the ultimate convenient dental care, Dentulu can do a virtual consultation, or send a dentist to a patient’s home, office, or whatever location works best for them.

Smile Virtual — Best Teledentist for Cosmetic Dentistry

Smile Virtual is a premier teledentistry platform that helps patients by providing consultations for a number of cosmetic dentistry procedures, including veneers, whitening, restorations, and more.

Alpha Dental Excellence — Best Teledentist for Second Opinions

Alpha Dental Excellence’s free virtual consultations make it easy and affordable to get an expert second opinion on dental conditions and procedures without having to visit an office in-person.

As with choosing any type of virtual healthcare, there are a number of factors to consider when evaluating the best teledentistry companies. We focused on criteria including companies’ security practices, available communication methods, and the convenience of the services offered.

Security

When it comes to healthcare on a virtual platform, privacy and security are of the utmost concern. Not only should your interactions between you and your dentist remain private, you want to ensure your medical records and billing information are protected. Therefore, we only selected teledentistry platforms that are HIPAA-compliant, and secure patient information with data encryption and other security measures.

Communication methods

One of the key benefits of teledentistry is that patients can choose the most convenient communication method for them. We prioritized teledentistry companies that offer multiple forms of communication, including video and phone chats, for synchronous communication, and text messaging or email, for asynchronous consultations.

Convenience

Another benefit of teledentistry is that it is more convenient than making an appointment for an in-person visit. We sought teledentistry companies that make care accessible by letting patients schedule appointments at their convenience, or requesting care on-demand. We also prioritized companies that offer a mobile app, for on-the-go access.

Sesame – Best Teledentist Overall

Sesame describes itself as a “superstore for great doctors and specialists,” providing a database of care options at discounted prices by paying care providers directly.  Sesame can help you find a wide range of services in your area, from dental health and prescriptions to mental health and urgent care. Their website also allows you to search for care in four different ways – by location, by care type, by specialty, or by symptom –  so you should have no problem finding dental health resources that suit your needs.

Pros and Cons of Sesame

Pros:

• Not dependent on insurance coverage
• Easy to navigate database of available services in your area
• Plus membership offers good value for its monthly fee

Cons:

• Doesn’t accept health insurance, even if you have it
• Not available in all regions. Check Sesame’s website to see if the service is available in your area

What Are Customers Saying?

“I don’t have insurance and couldn’t risk paying hundreds for a bill. Knowing how much to pay upfront meant I could actually afford my doctor on Sesame.”

Scores

Ease of use: 95/100

Convenience factor: 90/100

Technology: 90/100

Personalization: 85/100

LiveDentist – Most Convenient Teledentist

If you need general or emergency dental care and can’t reach a dentist’s office, LiveDentist is here to help. This teledentistry platform connects patients with board-certified dentists who can provide guidance, treatment recommendations, and other assistance 24/7.

It’s free to create an account with LiveDentist, and users can access the platform via the LiveDentist website or mobile app, available for iOS and Android devices. When initiating a consultation, users answer a few basic questions about the reason they are contacting LiveDentist to help match them with an appropriate provider.

A video consultation typically lasts about 15 minutes, during which the dentist will review your symptoms, advise treatment, and make a referral to an in-person dentist or specialist, if necessary. LiveDentist’s dentists can also order prescriptions when medically appropriate.

A video consultation costs a flat fee of $59, which patients can pay with dental insurance, if available.

Pros & Cons of LiveDentist

Pros:

• LiveDentist accepts dental insurance, and notifies patients upfront if their particular dental insurance is accepted. They will also notify patients prior to their appointment if there is any copay, and if so, how much it is.
• For patients who do not have dental insurance, LiveDentist charges an affordable $49 flat fee per consultation.
• LiveDentist’s providers can authorize prescriptions if medication is medically necessary to treat a patient’s issue. Dentists will order prescriptions from the patient’s local pharmacy, for convenient pick-up. They can also make a referral to an in-person dentist, if follow-up care is required.
• Patients can connect with LiveDentist through any Internet-connected device, via their iOS- and Android-compatible mobile app, or their website.

Cons:

• LiveDentist’s services are not yet available nationwide, although they are rapidly expanding their geographic reach. Currently, the service is available to patients in California, Illinois, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, South Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Kentucky, New York, and Washington.
• Because of limitations of teledentistry, including the inability for a dentist to complete a full oral exam virtually, an in-person appointment may still be needed for a complete diagnosis and treatment. LiveDentist is not meant to be a substitute for in-person care with a dentist.
• All LiveDentist consultations are conducted via video chat, so patients must have a device with a camera and microphone to utilize this service.

What Customers Are Saying

Customers appreciate the simplicity of LiveDentist, as well as the level of care they receive. “I was very pleased,” writes one patient. “It was quick, easy, and simple. Other medical encounters should be this simple.” Adds another user, “The process was prompt and professional, yet caring and considerate.”

Scores

Ease of use: 90/100
Convenience factor: 100/100
Technology: 90/100
Personalization: 100/100
Overall score: 95/100

DentalChat – Most Affordable

For more than a decade, DentalChat has been a leading provider of online dental care. Their mission is to help people access dental care, by providing fast, online answers to dental questions, and helping people connect with local dentists.

DentalChat’s interface is simple to use – patients can visit their website, or download their mobile app, available for iOS and Android, and start a free live chat conversation to connect with a dentist who can address their questions and concerns, and, if necessary, help them find a local dentist for in-person care. Patients who need additional assistance can get a video consultation with a dentist, who can prescribe medications, if necessary.

This platform also includes a variety of resources about common dental concerns, including tooth pain, gum problems, cosmetic dentistry, and more, which patients can use to get answers without speaking to a dentist.

Pros & Cons of DentalChat

Pros:

• DentalChat’s messaging feature is available 24/7, so it’s useful for patients who have questions or concerns during non-business hours. The platform is accessible via their website or mobile app.
• It is also free to ask questions via live chat, which helps eliminate financial barriers to accessing care.
• The prices for DentalChat’s paid services are affordable, particularly in comparison to other teledentistry services, with a flat-rate fee of only $59 per consultation.
• The fact that patients can get prescriptions through DentalChat is another benefit of this service. Prescriptions are provided at the discretion of the dentist.
• DentalChat accepts dental insurance, which can help offset the cost of video consultations.

Cons:

• Although DentalChat offers video consultations, it’s unclear whether patients can request a video consultation, or if they are only scheduled at the discretion of the dentist.
• DentalChat can also help patients find a local dentist, if necessary, although this service is not available in all geographic locations.
• Because of limitations of teledentistry, including the inability for a dentist to complete a full oral exam virtually, an in-person appointment may still be needed for a complete diagnosis and treatment. DentalChat is not meant to be a substitute for in-person care with a dentist.

What Customers Are Saying

One DentalChat user calls the platform, “One of the best apps ever for dental care online.” Other users praise the app for having an easy-to-use interface, and saving them time. “This is a super-convenient and well-formatted app,” adds another customer. “Much more effective than attempting to call an office.”

Scores

Ease of use: 70/100
Convenience factor: 80/100
Technology: 90/100
Personalization: 60/100
Overall score: 75/100

Denteractive – Best for 24/7 Care

Denteractive is a full-service platform that connects users with high-quality, board-certified dental-care professionals any time, day or night.

The platform allows patients to communicate with a dentist via video or text chat for advice, consultations, and second opinions. With a Denteractive account, patients can also send and store files such as pictures, videos, and X-rays, and track their communication and treatment history.

Patients who want to speak to a dentist via video chat can either make an appointment with a dentist at a time convenient for them, or have a virtual “walk-in” chat by choosing a dentist currently online.

For patients in Southern California who need an in-person dentist, Denteractive offers referral services. Denteractive plans to continue expanding its geographic availability area.

Users can access Denteractive’s services via their website, or mobile app, which is currently only available for iOS.

Pros & Cons of Denteractive

Pros:

• Denteractive’s main pro is that it allows patients to connect with a board-certified dental professional any time of day or night. The easy-to-use interface allows patients to see available appointments and instantly book a time to speak to a dentist via text or video chat.
• The Denteractive platform also has a feature that lets patients share and store files, such as images, documents, and X-rays, so that pertinent information is conveniently stored in one accessible location.
• If a patient’s regular dentist is signed up with Denteractive, patients can use the platform to connect with that provider, allowing for consistency of care.
• With Denteractive, patients can speak to a dentist via video chat or text, letting users decide which method of communication works best for them.

Cons:

• While Denteractive has a mobile app, it is currently only available for iOS devices. There is no word on when or if an Android-compatible app will be made available.
• Denteractive also provides services to match patients with dentists, but this option is currently only available to patients in Southern California.
• Because of teledentistry’s limitations, including the inability for a dentist to complete a full oral exam virtually, an in-person appointment may still be needed for a complete diagnosis and treatment of any conditions. Denteractive is not meant to be a substitute for in-person care with a dentist.

What Customers Are Saying

Many Denteractive users praise the app for helping in urgent situations. Writes one patient, “I needed to find a good dentist fast after a veneer fell off my tooth. I used this app and they were able to get me in that day. The dentist was phenomenal and affordable.”

Scores

Ease of use: 85/100
Convenience factor: 90/100
Technology: 70/100
Personalization: 75/100
Overall score: 85/100

Virtudent Inc. – Best Employee Dental Plan

Virtudent Inc.’s services are dedicated to bringing dental care to patients, whether it’s virtually or by treating patients on-site where they work. This teledentistry platform offers its services directly to patients and through employers to improve health and make dental care more convenient.

Patients can access virtual dental care through the Virtudent Connect platform, which allows patients to schedule a video call with a licensed dentist. Virtudent Connect helps patients save time by sending them all necessary medical forms, and reviewing billing and insurance information ahead of time, so patients know what, if anything, they will have to pay upfront.

Virtudent’s dentist will assess your needs and provide recommendations and advice. They can also write prescriptions and help patients arrange for in-person follow-up care, if necessary.

Virtudent accepts most major health insurance plans, and patients can pay any required copays and fees by credit card or Venmo.

Pros & Cons of Virtudent Inc.

Pros:

• Virtudent Inc. is a robust service that offers mobile, in-person dental care as well as teledentistry. Virtudent can deliver on-site dental cleanings and care to employees at their job-site. The service can also provide teledentistry.
• Bringing dental care directly to patients saves time and money, as they do not have to take time off work to travel to a dentist’s office. It also helps improve health by making preventative care more accessible.
• Because Virtudent works directly with patients and employers, they accept most major health insurance plans. Virtudent also offer a variety of ways for patients to pay copays, including Venmo.
• When needed, Virtudent’s dentists can prescribe medication to patients. Clinical staff can help patients who need in-person care find an in-network provider.

Cons:

• Although Virtudent does offer teledentistry services, they are not available on an on-demand basis. Patients must schedule an appointment in advance through their Virtudent account.
• While Virtudent’s on-site services include preventative care like screenings and cleanings, patients may still need to see a regular dentist for follow-up care or procedures.

What Customers Are Saying

Virtudent Inc. is highly regarded by patients for making it easier to access the dental care they need. “This got me to the dentist for the first time in three years,” writes one patient. “Because of [Virtudent] I have an important follow-up with a recommended dentist.”

Scores

Ease of use: 75/100
Convenience factor: 80/100
Technology: 90/100
Personalization: 75/100
Overall score: 80/100

Aspen Dental – Best for Insurance Coverage

Aspen Dental is a branded chain of dental practices with over 800 brick-and-mortar locations throughout the U.S. In addition to in-person services, they offer virtual visits with a licensed dentist Monday through Friday, between the hours of 9 am and 6 pm.

A virtual visit with an Aspen Dental dentist starts with a free conversation with a virtual care consultant, who will help you determine if a virtual appointment with a dentist is necessary. If so, they will assist you in scheduling your appointment. During this appointment, your dentist will assess your needs and determine if in-person follow-up care is required. If it is, they can connect you with a local Aspen Dental practice or another convenient dentist’s office.

A video consultation with an Aspen Dental dentist costs a flat fee of $69, although they accept many major dental insurance plans, as well as Health Savings Accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts.

Pros & Cons of Aspen Dental

Pros:

• One of the perks of Aspen Dental’s virtual services is that they offer a free consultation, so you don’t have to commit to a paid appointment right away. This gives patients the opportunity to determine if virtual care is the right option for them.
• Aspen Dental also has 800 brick-and-mortar locations throughout the U.S. If patients need further care, it is easy for Aspen Dental to connect them with one of their offices to see a dentist in-person.
• Aspen Dental uses doxy.me, a specially-designed telemedicine platform, for its virtual consultations, so patients can feel confident that the information they are sharing is private and secure.
• Aspen Dental also accepts many major dental insurance plans, which customers may be able to use to cover the cost of a virtual consultation.

Cons:

• A key drawback of Aspen Dental’s virtual services is that they are only available during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 9 am-6 pm), meaning this teledentistry platform is not an ideal option for emergencies or on-demand care.
• At $69 per consultation, Aspen Dental’s fees are more expensive than some of the other teledentistry companies on our list, particularly for individuals who do not have dental insurance.

What Customers Are Saying

Aspen Dental customers are pleased with the attention and service they receive from this provider. “They were compassionate, caring and there to help you have a great smile and to feel better about yourself,” writes one customer. “I recommend everyone that needs a dentist to go there.”

Scores

Ease of use: 90/100
Convenience factor: 80/100
Technology: 90/100
Personalization: 80/100
Overall score: 85/100

Toothpic – Best Educational Resources

Toothpic offers comprehensive resources for maximizing your oral health, including care reports, dentist directories, and Toothpic University, a guide to common dental terms, conditions, and tips.

For patients who need an assessment but don’t have the time or resources to visit an in-person dentist, Toothpic offers two tiers of service. Their basic Direct Care Report provides a quick, focused report on a specific issue. Patients upload a photo of the problem area, and get a response from a dentist within six hours. Toothpic also offers a Complete Care Report, which is a more in-depth assessment of a patient’s overall dental health and includes treatment options, price estimates, and homecare recommendations.

With either report, if a patient needs further in-person treatment, Toothpic can help them connect with a local dentist. Patients can also use Toothpic University’s resources to learn more about common dental conditions and tips for improving their oral health.

Pros & Cons of Toothpic

Pros:

• Toothpic’s biggest pro is their affordable price point. A Direct Care Report, which addresses a specific issue, is only $10, while a Complete Care Report, which provides in-depth feedback on a patient’s oral health, is just $35.
• Because Toothpic’s Care Reports are built on asynchronous communication between the patient and their dentist, this is a more flexible, convenient option for individuals who don’t have the time to schedule a virtual appointment with a dentist.
• In addition to Care Reports, Toothpic offers a wide range of free educational resources that patients can use to help improve their oral health. This includes a dentist directory to help patients find a local in-person dentist; Toothpic University, which has a glossary of common dentistry terms and conditions, and Smile Score, a brief questionnaire that patients can use to get a quick rating for their oral health.

Cons:

• Toothpic does not accept any dental insurance for its services, so all users must pay out-of-pocket.
• Although Toothpic has a website, the only way to use their platform for care reports is via their mobile app, which is available for iOS and Android devices. This may present a barrier to users who do not have smartphones, or do not feel comfortable using apps.
• While Toothpic’s asynchronous communication may be ideal for some, to others it may be a drawback that interactions between patients and dentists are limited.

What Customers Are Saying

Customers have found Toothpic to be a comprehensive answer to their dental concerns. Writes one user, “This app is easy to use. It gave a surprisingly detailed report that answered my dental questions, and referred me to a dentist for a potential other issue.”

Scores

Ease of use: 85/100
Convenience factor: 90/100
Technology: 90/100
Personalization: 75/100
Overall score: 85/100

The TeleDentists – Best for Finding an In-Person Dentist

The TeleDentists provides on-demand consultations, and connects patients to in-person dentists to address a variety of general dentistry needs with licensed dentists in all 50 states.

New users must create an account and complete a brief medical survey. From there, they are sent to a Virtual Waiting Room while The TeleDentists’ team finds an available dentist, a process that typically takes 5-10 minutes. The dentist will connect with the patient via a video consultation, through which they can assess the patient’s needs and make treatment recommendations. If the problem requires medication, the dentist can call in a prescription to the patient’s local pharmacy.

If an in-person visit is required, The TeleDentists’ customer service team will help the patient coordinate an appointment with a local dentist.

Patients can also use The TeleDentists to get a second opinion on issues and treatment options related to several topics, including orthodontics, root canals, cosmetic dentistry, gum disease, and more.

Pros & Cons of The TeleDentists

Pros:

• The biggest pro of The TeleDentists is that they offer 24/7, on-demand virtual care from board-certified dentists. It typically takes The TeleDentists less than 10 minutes to connect patients with a dentist for a video consultation, making this an ideal choice for emergencies and non-business hour appointments.
• The TeleDentists works with a nationwide network of licensed dentists;so in the event patients need in-person follow-up care, they can easily connect them with a nearby dental practice. The TeleDentist’s customer service team will coordinate an in-person appointment for the patient, often within 24 hours.
• For patients who have a diagnosis or recommended procedure from a dentist, but want a second opinion, The TeleDentists offers a second opinion service that includes a review of your dental records and a written second opinion from a dentist that has a specialization in your area of concern. The turnaround time for second opinions is typically three days.

Cons:

• Consultations through The TeleDentists costs $59, and second opinions are $199, making this service among the more expensive teledentistry options on our list.
• Additionally, The TeleDentists does not accept dental insurance for any of its services, so customers must pay these fees out-of-pocket. This may make this platform cost-prohibitive to some users.
• All consultations conducted via The TeleDentists are video chats, so users must have a device with a camera and microphone in order to utilize this service.

What Customers Are Saying

Customers appreciate The TeleDentists for providing attentive, compassionate care right when they need it most. “Within minutes I set up a video appointment with a knowledgeable dentist who took the time to understand my problem,” writes one customer. “The feedback gave me great peace of mind.”

Scores

Ease of use: 90/100
Convenience factor: 95/100
Technology: 80/100
Personalization: 75/100
Overall score: 85/100

Dentulu – Best for Concierge Services

Dentulu is a robust teledentistry platform that offers virtual care, as well as mobile and concierge dentistry.

According to Dentulu, their platform can help users connect to a dentist in less than 5minutes. Users can either download their mobile app, available for iOS and Android, or use their website to select the dentist of their choice, and begin a video consultation to get advice, treatment recommendations, and a prescription, if necessary, for their dental issues. Emergency dentists are available 24/7 to address issues that may arise during non-business hours.

Patients can use Dentulu to find and schedule an appointment at a local dentist’s office, but the most unique feature of this platform is their mobile and concierge dentist services. Dentulu subscribers can use this feature to schedule a dental exam in their home, office, or wherever is most convenient for them.

Pros & Cons of Dentulu

Pros:

• The biggest pro of Dentulu is that the app can connect users with mobile dentistry services. Patients can request an in-person visit from a Dentulu dental team at their home or office. Dentulu also provides dental care to patients in hospitals and long-term care facilities.
• Dentulu accepts most major health insurance plans, which patients can use for virtual consultations and in-person dental care, depending on their specific coverage.
• Dentulu provides patients with access to 24/7, on-demand care through their mobile app, available for iOS and Android devices. Users can get expert dental advice any time for a variety of issues with a video consultation, and can use Dentulu’s secure, HIPAA-compliant platform to send photos, X-rays, and other documentation to their dentist.

Cons:

• Dentulu charges a flat rate of $55 for a video consultation, making it one of the more expensive teledentistry services on our list.
• Additionally, Dentulu’s video consultations are limited to 10 minutes, which may not be enough time for a patient to get all of their questions answered or concerns addressed.
• All virtual appointments through Dentulu are video chats, so patients must have a device with a camera and microphone in order to use this platform, which may be a barrier for some users.

What Customers Are Saying

Dentulu customers love the convenience and level of care that this app provides. “I discovered Dentulu through social media,” writes one user. “My experience was super-convenient, relaxing, and overall joyful. 10/10 would recommend it to my friends and family.”

Scores

Ease of use: 90/100
Convenience factor: 90/100
Technology: 90/100
Personalization: 90/100
Overall score: 90/100

Smile Virtual – Best for Cosmetic Dentistry

For individuals who are looking for cosmetic dental care, Smile Virtual is an option worth considering.

Cosmetic dentistry is a specific niche that focuses on improving the appearance of a person’s teeth and smile through treatments like veneers, whitening, restorations, and more.

Smile Virtual connects patients with cosmetic dentists through a simple video consultation process. Patients upload photos of their teeth and smile, give a brief explanation of what they are looking to improve, and ask questions about procedures. A dentist reviews the photos and sends back a personalized video explaining treatment options. From there, patients who choose to pursue treatment can schedule an appointment to get started.

This asynchronous communication method makes it easy for patients to get the information they need on their schedule.

Consultations for cosmetic dentistry via Smile Virtual are free, while the prices for individual treatments will vary depending on the dentist and the treatments themselves.

Pros & Cons of Smile Virtual

Pros:

• For patients who are specifically looking to address cosmetic dentistry needs, Smile Virtual is the ideal platform for getting a consultation and exploring options. Their team focuses on a variety of cosmetic dentistry needs, including veneers, restorations, and whitening, and will provide customers with detailed recommendations about their options.
• Cosmetic dentistry consultations through Smile Virtual are free, making this an affordable, accessible option for those who are considering cosmetic dental procedures, but don’t want to incur any costs while exploring their options.
• Smile Virtual is an asynchronous platform, making it convenient for patients to get their questions answered and learn about their cosmetic dentistry options without having to set aside a specific time to talk to a dentist.

Cons:

• For individuals who are looking for general teledentistry services, Smile Virtual is not the right option. This platform only offers cosmetic dentistry services, so individuals who need a general consultation or emergency care will need to look elsewhere.
• Additionally, patient’s choices are limited to dentists who contract with Smile Virtual to be a part of the platform’s network. Although Smile Virtual is a national platform, they may not have dentists available in all geographic areas.
  

What Customers Are Saying

Many customers say that their experience with Smile Virtual exceeded their expectations. “Doing a virtual consult was the best option for me,” says one customer. “It let me connect with the doctor without any fear. I felt so comfortable. My new smile gave me confidence I never knew existed.”

Scores

Ease of use: 90/100
Convenience factor: 80/100
Technology: 90/100
Personalization: 80/100
Overall score: 85/100

Alpha Dental Excellence – Best for Second Opinions

Alpha Dental Excellence is a brick-and-mortar dental practice located in Bucks County, Pennsylvania that is offering virtual consultations with patients in any location to help provide access to dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Patients can schedule a free, 20-minute virtual consultation with one of Alpha’s team of dentists during regular business hours seven days a week. Alpha conducts virtual visits via video conference, so a computer, phone, or tablet with a camera and microphone is required.

During your video consultation, your dentist will assess your needs, and make recommendations for emergency or follow-up care. Alpha’s virtual services can be used to address issues and questions related to implants, crowns, bridges, orthodontics, general oral care, and more. They can also offer a second opinion to a previous diagnosis.

To ensure patient privacy, Alpha’s team adheres to data privacy agreements established by HIPAA, PIPEDA, and GDPR.

Pros & Cons of Alpha Dental Excellence

Pros:

• For patients in the Bucks County area of Pennsylvania, Alpha Dental Excellence is an ideal option. This dental practice offers virtual consultations as well as in-person follow-up care at their brick-and-mortar location in Langhorne, PA.
• Virtual consultations through Alpha Dental Practice are currently being offered free-of-charge, as a way to provide additional care to patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Patients do not need to create an account or be a regular Alpha Dental Excellence patient to take advantage of this complimentary service.
• While Alpha Dental Excellence does not guarantee on-demand care, same-day appointments are typically available, including on Saturdays and Sundays.

Cons:

• Because Alpha Dental Excellence is a single-location, brick-and-mortar dental practice, follow-up care options are limited for those who are outside of the Southeastern PA region. Unlike other teledentistry services with nationwide networks, Alpha Dental Excellence may not be able to refer patients or connect them with a local dentist if in-person care is needed.
• Alpha Dental Excellence is offering free virtual consultations as a way to help individuals stay safe and access dental care during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it is unclear whether this service will be offered long-term, or if the practice will begin charging fees for virtual consultations when the pandemic ends.

What Customers Are Saying

Customers praise Alpha Dental Excellence for making them feel comfortable and supported. “I am very happy with my treatment at Alpha Dental Excellence,” writes one customer. “The dentists and support staff are all kind and efficient. Treatment plans are explained, and all questions answered.”

Scores

Ease of use: 90/100
Convenience factor: 80/100
Technology: 90/100
Personalization: 80/100
Overall score: 85/100

Teledentistry is a form of telemedicine, which is the use of telecommunications and other related technologies to provide care for a variety of physical and mental health needs. As it pertains to patients, teledentistry is the practice of receiving consultations and basic oral care via a virtual platform.

While advances in technology, especially the widespread availability of cameras on computers, mobile phones and tablets, has expanded the scope of what’s possible via teledentistry, the practice is still meant to supplement, not replace, in-person visits to a dentist. Currently, teledentistry is primarily used for consultations, in which dentists can use videos or photos to identify issues, make treatment recommendations, and answer questions. Cleanings and dental procedures must still be conducted at a dentist’s office.

Some teledentistry companies exist solely as a virtual practice. In other cases, brick-and-mortar dentist practices offer teledentistry services to existing and new patients as a way to increase access to care. When selecting a teledentistry service, be sure to confirm that it meets all of your dental care needs.

The use of teledentistry services has been on the rise in recent years. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, more dental practices are adopting some form of virtual care as a way to continue seeing and treating patients in as safe a manner as possible.

• byte, a direct-to-consumer invisible aligner company, recently announced a partnership with the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce to increase access to oral healthcare to Hispanic communities by offering free teledentistry services, among other discounts and education resources.
• In another expansion of teledentistry access, Futuredontics, the parent company of 1-800-DENTIST, is partnering with Denteractive to provide immediate after-hours dental care to patients, as well as connect patients to appropriate in-person care via 1-800-DENTIST’s national network.
• As a response to the limitations on in-person care imposed by the pandemic, many companies, such as Community Behavioral Health in Philadelphia, are contracting with teledentistry services to offer their employees virtual dental care.

• ADA News Survey: More Americans want to visit the dentist.
• byteCares Partners with California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce to Expand Access to Teledentistry and Remote Teeth Straightening
• Futuredontics (1-800-DENTIST) Partners With Denteractive to Provide Immediate Afterhours Dental Care via Teledentistry
• Community Behavioral Health Announces Virtudent as Teledentistry Solution