Perceptions of Teledentistry Among Dental Assistants and Dentists: A Qualitative Exploration of Opportunities and Challenges in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Teledentistry has emerged as a promising approach to improve access to dental care and enhance patient outcomes, particularly in underserved areas. However, the adoption and implementation of teledentistry in Saudi Arabia have been limited, and little is known about the perceptions and experiences of dental professionals regarding this technology. This qualitative study aimed to explore the perspectives of dental assistants and dentists in Saudi Arabia on the opportunities and challenges of teledentistry. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 20 dental assistants and 10 dentists from various regions of Saudi Arabia. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes and subthemes related to the perceived benefits, barriers, and facilitators of teledentistry. The findings revealed that dental assistants and dentists recognized the potential of teledentistry to increase access to care, improve patient convenience, and enhance interprofessional collaboration. However, they also identified several challenges, including technical issues, privacy and security concerns, lack of training and support, and resistance to change. The participants emphasized the need for clear policies and guidelines, adequate infrastructure and resources, and ongoing education and training to facilitate the successful implementation of teledentistry in Saudi Arabia. The insights from this study can inform the development of strategies and interventions to promote the adoption and effectiveness of teledentistry in dental practice.