Diagnostic Value of Tele-dentistry in Decay Detection by DMFT Method

Background and Objectives: Teledentistry is among the concepts introduced into the dental field that facilitated the efforts of dentists and hygienists in this field. In numerous countries, including Iran, the financial resources and equipment for cities with hospitals or dental clinics are insufficient. Furthermore, the necessary human resources, such as dentists, secretaries, etc. are unavailable to operate in these centers. This study explored the benefits of using this new technology. Methods: This was a diagnostic value study using a cross-sectional design, i.e., conducted in Qom City, Iran, in 2019. This research was performed with the aid of a dentist and an assistant. Initially, the den-tist examined the explored patient’s mouth, and the assistant, after being trained in the principle of photography, captured the research participant’s mouth. Then, the photo was illustrated to the dentist after two weeks and the dentist expressed his opinion. Comparing the two comments was established using the DMFT index. Descriptive statistics were used to report the mean and standard deviation and frequency of the collected data. Furthermore, SPSS was used to determine the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of caries diagnosis by photographic versus face detection method. Results: The sensitivity of the DMFT method in detecting healthy teeth was positive and high, i.e., ap-proximately 79.0%. Moreover, the feature of the telemedicine method for the detection of decayed teeth was calculated to be about 94.0%, i.e., a significant percentage. Conclusion: Based on the obtained data, due to the advances in technology and the development of infrastructure communications in the country, especially in Qom Province and in Iran, given the distance dimension in Iran, telecommunication dentistry can be a novel method used in the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of oral diseases. Accordingly, it could help reduce the costs imposed on the patient, espe-cially its latent costs (including the waste of time).