Alternative Dental Care Delivery Models, Public Health and Creating Optimal Oral Health for All

With the significance of the recent pandemic, it has never before been more important to provide dental services through out-of-the-box and non-traditional methods. Yet prior to COVID-19, mobile dentistry and teledentistry – what we now know as alternative care delivery models– were on the rise thanks to interest of public health advocates, legislative bodies, and industry leaders. Teledentistry platforms, virtual appointments, redesigned mobile and portable units, and innovative technology now makes it easier to take dental care to the patients where they live, work and play. This course will cover the history and future of teledentistry and will discuss the effects of new healthcare delivery models on oral-systemic health and their roles in diversity, equity and inclusion. It will also highlight new strategies to increase collaboration among dental and medical providers as well as cover best practices to implementing alternative care delivery models into new and existing programs and practices.