Mapping Teledentistry Encounters to Demographic and Diagnostic Groups: A Retrospective Evaluation of Claims Data in a U.S. Dental Institution

Abstract

Introduction: Teledentistry expanded rapidly during COVID-19-related dental clinic closures, yet long-term utilization patterns, associated procedures, and patient characteristics remain insufficiently described. This study characterized teledentistry encounters by patient demographics and diagnoses and evaluated shifts in claim volumes and procedure patterns during and after clinic shutdown. Methods: A retrospective analysis evaluated 375 teledentistry claims from 288 patients at a university dental clinic (March 2020–April 2024). Change-point detection identified structural shifts in weekly claim volume. Independent t-tests and chi-squared tests compared demographics and procedure prevalence between periods. Encounters were linked to the most recent diagnoses within 90 days. Results: Most patients (83.7%) used teledentistry once. Claims peaked during shutdown (1.34/day) and declined thereafter (0.165/day). After the detected breakpoint in November 2020, average weekly claims decreased from 6.8 to 0.76. Limited oral evaluation was more common during shutdown than after (96.1% vs. 82.6%; p < 0.001). Post-shutdown patients were younger (mean age 37.8 vs. 42.7 years; p = 0.042), with no difference in sex (p = 0.28). Teledentistry services were more often covered by insurance post-shutdown (91.6% vs. 77.0%; p < 0.001). Common diagnoses included benign oral lesions and temporomandibular disorders. Conclusion: Teledentistry utilization surged during clinic closures but stabilized at low volumes post-reopening. While these findings specifically reflect United States health care billing and clinic environments, the predominant reliance on teledentistry for limited evaluations and select diagnostic groups highlights targeted opportunities for virtual care. As noted in the broader literature, future efforts to support sustainable integration will rely on continued technological advancements and educational initiatives for patients and health professionals.