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The utilisation of teledentistry in Australia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Joshua Lee1, Joon Soo Park2, Boxi Feng3
1School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia; School of Allied Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia; International Research Collaborative - Oral Health and Equity, The University of Western Australia, Western Australia, Crawley, Australia.
Background:
Teledentistry is the usage of information-based technologies to deliver healthcare services remotely. It is used to deliver care in regional, rural and remote regions and was particularly useful to deliver care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Objective:
This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine teledentistry utilisation in Australia.
Methods:
The databases PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE and Web of Science were searched from inception to June-2024. The phrases "Dental" AND "Telehealth" AND "Australia" and "Teledentistry" AND "Australia" were used. Two authors completed the study selection and data extraction. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools were used to assess quality and bias.
Results:
Eighteen articles met the inclusion criteria. There were six diagnostic tests, six cross-sectional studies, 4 economic evaluations, one qualitative study and one expert opinion. Teledentistry was accurate for screening caries (average sensitivity=69.7 %, average specificity=97.4 %). There also appeared to be a non-significant negative correlation between specificity and sensitivity (r = 0.432). Opinions regarding teledentistry were mixed from clinicians but positive from patients. Teledentistry may also lead to savings for patients and healthcare providers.
Conclusion:
Teledentistry increases healthcare access especially for people in regional, rural and remote areas. It is an effective screening tool for caries. Whilst the opinions of clinicians were mixed, potential implementation barriers were identified which could improve opinions of clinicians and increase implementation.
Clinical Importance:
This study demonstrates teledentistry as a satisfactory tool for screening caries. This could be beneficial to those with difficulties visiting dentists in-person, particularly if they live in regional, rural or remote areas.
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