Teledentistry will continue to grow as providers look for ways to increase access to care for underserved populations, according to Barry Lyon, DDS.
Dr. Lyon, director of provider recruiting and onboarding at Dental Care Alliance, recently spoke with Becker’s about what’s next for virtual dental care and the challenges that lay ahead.
Editor’s note: This Q&A is part of a weekly series featuring Dr. Lyon focused on topics in the dental industry and DSO field. The views expressed are those of Dr. Lyon and do not necessarily reflect those of Dental Care Alliance.
This response was lightly edited for clarity and length.
Dr. Barry Lyon:
The pandemic created havoc in the healthcare world. Face-to-face doctor-patient visits created risks, and patients with dental emergencies were often left unseen. A method of triage was needed that placed neither the dentist nor the patient in jeopardy. The advent of teledentistry and telemedicine was a solution to the problem. Today, teledentistry has emerged as a tool for dentists and DSOs to improve access to care. While it will never replace traditional dentistry, all 50 states allow teledentistry, although in accordance with their specific regulations.
While clinical exams, radiographs and periodontal probings require physical contact with a patient, there is clearly a role for remote visits. Combining them into a hybrid role is supported by the ADA.
Teledentistry is taking on more relevancy as artificial intelligence-powered tools assist the dentist in reviewing radiographs and identifying dental disease. While dentists will remain responsible for diagnosis and treatment decisions, AI may improve efficiency and help prioritize patients who require immediate attention.
How can DSOs take advantage of teledentistry? Virtual consultations can modernize patient intake, enhance scheduling efficiency and increase access across multiple locations. Teledentistry may help mitigate hiring challenges DSOs continue to face. With their multi-site presence, DSOs are positioned nicely to take advantage of remote contact. Access to care is another area in which teledentistry will benefit DSOs. Rural communities, Medicaid populations and underserved [patients] will find teledentistry will aid them in seeking care they would otherwise find difficult to obtain.
Remote monitoring will gain traction
Remote monitoring technologies are creating new opportunities for orthodontics, pediatric dentistry and post-surgical care.
Patients can submit photographs, videos and digital scans from home, allowing providers to monitor treatment progress between office visits. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry notes that teledentistry can support patient evaluation, consultation, supervision and monitoring through telecommunications technology.
As digital scanning technologies become more accessible, remote monitoring is expected to become a routine component of many treatment workflows.
Teledentistry will improve access for underserved populations
One of teledentistry’s most significant long-term benefits is its potential to expand access to care.
Rural communities, schools, nursing facilities and underserved populations often face barriers to receiving dental services. Teledentistry can help connect patients with providers more efficiently and facilitate earlier intervention when treatment is needed.
For Medicaid programs, public health initiatives and community outreach efforts, virtual care may become an increasingly important strategy for addressing oral health disparities.
Market growth reflects increasing adoption
The business outlook for teledentistry remains strong. According to Grand View Research, the global teledentistry market was valued at approximately $2 billion in 2024 and is projected to experience significant growth through the end of the decade, driven by increasing digital health adoption, growing demand for convenience and expanding access to mobile technologies.
Challenges remain
Despite its potential, several obstacles could slow adoption. Reimbursement policies vary across states and payers, licensure requirements can limit interstate care, and many dental conditions still require in-person evaluation.
Providers must also ensure that virtual platforms maintain patient privacy, clinical quality and regulatory compliance while integrating seamlessly into existing workflows.
The bottom line
The future of teledentistry is not about replacing the dental office. Instead, it is about extending the reach of dental professionals through technology.
As artificial intelligence, remote monitoring and virtual care platforms continue to mature, teledentistry is expected to become a standard component of dental delivery. Organizations that invest in these capabilities today may be better positioned to improve patient access, enhance operational efficiency and compete in an increasingly digital healthcare environment.
At the Becker's 5th Annual Future of Dentistry Roundtable, taking place September 14-15 in Chicago, dental leaders and executives will gain insights into emerging technologies, practice growth strategies and the evolving landscape of dental care delivery, with a focus on innovation, patient experience and operational excellence. Apply for complimentary registration now.