Virtual dental care has become a trusted and convenient way to access select professional dental services without stepping into a dental office. While it’s not a replacement for hands-on treatments with your in-network dentist - like routine cleanings or fillings -it’s an excellent solution for consultations and preventive care guidance when people just can’t get to the dentist because they don’t have a dentist nearby, are a person with a disability, are immobile for any reason, or just plain busy.
Virtual dentistry is best used to supplement basic care or as a way to find quick or convenient care in the short-term. We still encourage all our members to find a long-term dental home with an in-person, in-network dentist.
During a virtual dental appointment, dentists can help you decide if an issue is urgent and requires an in-office appointment. A virtual dental appointment can also serve as a simple consultation when you don’t require a cleaning but may have questions about other dental issues.
Here's why it works and why it's growing in popularity
What is virtual dental care for?
Virtual dental care is ideal for basic consultations, preventive care guidance, and follow-up discussions. It connects you with dentists who can assess your concerns, provide advice, and guide you on next steps—all through secure video calls. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden toothache or just need tips for improving your oral care routine, virtual dental care offers a fast and effective solution.
Who is virtual dental care for?
Virtual dental care is perfect for:
- Busy working people and families who need flexible scheduling.
- Patients who live in rural areas or people who may not have easy access to traditional dental offices.
- Individuals managing minor dental concerns like tooth sensitivity, gum health questions, or cosmetic consultations.
- Those seeking a second opinion on treatment plans or advice on dental procedures.
Why is virtual dental care growing in popularity?
The growth of virtual dental care is driven by its accessibility, convenience, and focus on patient-centered care:
- Ease of access: No need to travel or wait for an in-office appointment. You can connect with a dentist from anywhere.
- Time-Saving: Appointments are quicker and fit into even the busiest schedules, with extended hours.
- Cost-effective: Virtual consultations often cost less than in-person visits, making dental care more affordable.
- Trusted expertise: Licensed dentists use technology to evaluate and address your concerns, ensuring the same professional standards you’d expect in a dental office.
- Online dental prescriptions: Dentists can prescribe non-opioid dental medications during a virtual visit.
How does virtual dental care work?
You might wonder how effective dental care can be when it's delivered over a computer screen. The truth is virtual dental care works because it focuses on aspects of care that don't always require in-person visits. Thanks to modern technology, dentists can evaluate, diagnose, and guide patients in meaningful ways—without the need for an exam room. Here's how:
Access to expert knowledge through virtual dentists:
Virtual dental care gives you access to professional expertise when and where you need it. Whether you're at home, at work, or traveling, you can consult a licensed dentist without waiting for an in-person appointment.
Guided follow-up care:
While virtual dental care can’t replace treatments like fillings or routine cleanings, it excels in directing patients to the appropriate next steps. Dentists can help you determine whether an issue is urgent or can wait, saving you time and unnecessary trips to the dentist.
Empowering patients with information:
A key benefit of virtual dental care is education. Dentists can explain X-rays that you upload as attachments, review your dental history, and walk you through treatment plans—all remotely. This empowers you to make informed decisions about your oral health.
How to find virtual dental care
If you have a Delta Dental of Washington dental plan through your employer you may have access to Dentistry.one, a virtual dental care platform that makes it easy to get trusted care from the comfort of home.
And remember, it’s always preferred to find long-term dental care with an in-person, in-network provider. But virtual dentistry is a great way to access convenient dental health resources if you have difficulty doing so for any reason. It’s also a great supplement to in-person care.
Learn more and book your first consultation today!
Learn more about virtual dental care
