Comparison of Teledentistry and Traditional Clinical Examination for Detection of DMFT Index in Children: A Systematic Review.

Abstract

Purpose: This study systematically analyzed the published literature to evaluate the reliability of the caries experience index detection conducted in children (younger than 18 years of age) through teledental systems, comparing it with data obtained through traditional dental consultations. The question to be explored was whether dentists could use teledentistry to assess the caries risk index by calculating the DMFT (decayed, missing, and filled permanent teeth) score, thereby potentially reducing consultation time. Methods: A systematic English-language literature review was conducted, including the period from 2014 to 2024, that included the MeSH terms (("telemedicine"[Mesh]) AND "dental caries"[Mesh]) AND "DMF index"[Mesh]). Inclusion and exclusion criteria were defined according to the PICO methodology. A total of 11 manuscripts met the inclusion criteria. The methodological quality of these studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) with specific tools for cross-over studies. Results: From the 11 studies reviewed, it was suggested that teledentistry, through the use of intraoral photographs or video recordings, may represent a reliable, noninvasive, and efficient alternative for the detection of the caries experience index, compared to clinical examinations performed according to the traditional method. In most cases, the results were comparable between the two approaches. Conclusion: Incorporating teledentistry in combination with regular dental appointments could streamline clinical processes, enable effective treatment planning, and facilitate remote monitoring of the oral health status of patients, making it a timely and contemporary solution for a connected and health-conscious society-which is particularly valuable during public health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.