SmileDirectClub is opening its proprietary teledentistry platform to any licensed dentist or orthodontist in the United States to help them communicate with their patients while their physical offices are closed or limited to emergency procedures.
As the ADA and state dental boards and associations mandate the postponement of all non-essential dental care amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the platform will allow dentists and orthodontists to communicate with and treat their patients remotely, SmileDirectClub said.
Dental professionals can use the telehealth app with video and live chat capabilities to conduct follow-up care and manage contact with patients remotely, decreasing the risk of exposure to disease, SmileDirectClub said.
The teledentistry platform will be available free of charge. SmileDirectClub also is distributing complementary medical-grade 3-D printed face shields so providers have the personal protection equipment (PPE) needed for emergency in-office care.
“Many dental practices have closed during this pandemic. As a pioneer in the telehealth space, our teledentistry platform empowers dentists and orthodontists to manage contact with and treatment of their patients remotely, which is key to everyone’s safety right now,” said Dr. Jeffrey Sulitzer, SmileDirectClub clinical officer.
“As a company built on doctor-directed remote dental care, we feel a responsibility to support dental professionals so that they can continue to manage patient care during this time. We are well positioned to offer our resources and telehealth expertise to support these doctors and give them the tools necessary to continue business operations while keeping everyone safe in the comfort of their own homes,” said Sulitzer.
To help the dental community get back on its feet once the crisis is over, SmileDirectClub also is opening up its referral network and offering dentists the opportunity to connect with new patients needing ongoing regular dental care before, during, or after clear aligner therapy.
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