Advancing Teledentistry: Insights from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

SAUDI ARABIA: In a recent study conducted by Abdulwahhab Alshammari and Ibrahem Almaktoom from the Health Informatics Department at King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the awareness and knowledge of Teledentistry among dental practitioners and patients in Jeddah were investigated.

The study aimed to explore the levels of awareness and knowledge of Teledentistry among dental providers and patients in Jeddah. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, the research employed a five-point Likert-type questionnaire for both dental providers and patients. The Institutional Review Board approved the study, and responses were collected through convenience and snowball sampling.

Insights from Dental Providers

The dental providers’ questionnaire covered four key domains: Teledentistry system effectiveness, usefulness for dental practice, usefulness for patients, and concerns about confidentiality and security. Out of the 203 responses collected, more than 60% of dentists expressed belief in the value of Teledentistry. They identified its potential to aid patient education, monitor conditions, and improve services in remote areas.

Global Teledentistry Market To Reach $3.35B by 2027

The patients’ questionnaire focused on two domains: those with previous Teledentistry experience and those without. From the 309 patient responses, over 70% believed that Teledentistry could save time and money. Additionally, more than half expressed a desire for Teledentistry to be implemented across all hospitals.

Monetary Settlement and Compliance Monitoring

As an additional insight, the study revealed that dentists and patients generally showed optimism and support for the concept of Teledentistry. The dental clinic must now pay $97,000 to the terminated employee, Christina Vescio-Holland, following a discrimination case. This settlement is roughly equivalent to three annual wages for the affected mother. In addition to the monetary compensation, PL Dental is required to submit regular reports to state authorities, monitoring their compliance with anti-discrimination policies.

Given the shortage of dental specialists in Saudi Arabia, particularly in rural areas, Teledentistry emerges as a crucial solution for diagnosing and treating complex cases. The study underscores the importance of Teledentistry in reaching underserved populations and making consultations more accessible.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the study reflects a positive attitude toward Teledentistry among both providers and patients, it also identifies areas for improvement. Understanding the barriers to adopting Teledentistry applications and services will be essential for encouraging broader usage among dental practitioners and patients.

In conclusion, the study contributes valuable insights into the current state of Teledentistry awareness and knowledge in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. It highlights the potential benefits of Teledentistry, especially in addressing geographical disparities in dental care access. As technology continues to play a pivotal role in healthcare, Teledentistry emerges as a promising avenue for improving oral health services globally.