Mobile Dentistry
A survey from dentists reports that 49.1% of disabled people rarely if ever go to the dental office.
As more seniors live alone, especially during the pandemic, the fear of being trapped in your home is a genuine concern. Many people with limited mobility go to great lengths to go out for dental appointments. Yet, there are still some things that can be done at home – like receiving dental care.
Luckily, there’s an option for these individuals: mobile dentistry. The process only involves one visit to your home by the dentist, which can take up to two hours. Those who don’t have easy access to dentists and can’t leave their homes can use at-home care. It makes it possible for you to receive treatment without having to come to the clinic or hospital!
If you cannot travel out of the house, then a mobile dental clinic is your best option.
Can Dentists Do Home Visits?
Yes! Dentists associated with mobile dental clinics offer home visits at an affordable rate. A mobile dentist is someone who gives dental care at your home. This option makes it easier for the elderly, special needs, or disabled to access dental care.
Mobile clinics are otherwise equipped with state-of-the-art mobile equipment and dental materials.
People who cannot come to the dentist can avail of mobile care. This also goes for people bed-bound in:
- Nursing Homes
- Geriatric Care
- Independent Living Homes
- Assisted Living Facilities
- Private Homes
- Hospice
What Is Mobile Dentistry?
Mobile dental services can help you receive good care from a dentist in the comfort of your own home! It allows a dentist to visit you in your own home if your health warrants it. That way, you can receive oral care without ever having to leave your house.
Mobile dental care is suitable for elderly patients and homebound patients. Besides, it can help people with other problems, like anxiety, and health conditions. Furthermore, it helps brings the latest innovation in the field of dentistry to your home.
How Does In-Home Dental Care Work?
To receive dental care from mobile dentists, you will first need a referral from your primary care provider. After that, the mobile dental team will come to your house with all their equipment. First, they assess and evaluate your oral health. After that, they will be able to provide you with dental care in your own home.
Dental clinics offer a variety of services such as:
- Oral Exams
- Teeth Cleanings (Prophylaxis)
- Fillings (Restorations) for Cavities
- Digital X-Rays
- Extractions
- Root Canal Treatment (When Necessary)
- Gum Disease (Gingivitis or Periodontitis) Management
- Denture Adjustments & Repairs
- Oral Hygiene Advice
You shouldn’t have to worry about leaving your house to receive oral care. The mobile dental office brings dentists to your home or place of work.
Benefits of Mobile Dentistry
There are quite a few benefits associated with mobile dentistry. First of all, you can receive treatment in the comfort of your own home. Second, it is very convenient because you don’t have to go anywhere or take time off work for appointments.
Here are a few benefits of mobile dental care:
Accessibility
In-home dental clinics are a boon to seniors and other people with limited mobility. It also helps the patients who are bedridden or confined to wheelchairs. This is because they can access dental care in the comfort of their homes.
Moreover, it takes the clinic to remote areas where dentists are scarce. It helps you get treatment without worrying about the expenses like in a clinic scenario.
Besides, there can be times when there is an emergency, but your dentist may not be able to see you. In such cases, a mobile dental office can come in very handy.
Ease of Compassionate Dental Care
For many patients, the idea to get dental treatment at their doorstep is most welcome. It can be a great relief for many people and give them more freedom than they had before. The team brings all equipment necessary for treating you without having to leave home. This means no more sitting in dentists’ chairs for hours on end. It also reduces the stress level of patients who are anxious about dental procedures and pain.
Compassion, Convenience, and Comfort
Aside from the ease of access, receiving at-home treatment can be beneficial. Not only are you at the comfort of your home, but you also return to your tasks soon after. Besides, the patients are more confident when they receive treatment where they feel safe and secure.
Furthermore, visiting clinics is a hassle for people with busy schedules. Mobile dental services are convenient as they come to you at your time and place of choice.
Quality of Mobile Dentistry Treatment
People in remote places have fewer chances of receiving quality dental care. This has been a subject of contention in many rural communities. A mobile dental office contains the necessary equipment for all treatments like a clinic.
Mobile clinics are also outfitted with a pool of mobile dentists ready to head out for calls. Hence there is no question about quality. Moreover, it also provides a stress-free environment and reduces anxiety levels during procedures.
Moreover, they are equipped with the necessary equipment designed to handle dental emergencies. Thus, it can benefit older adults who need oral care but not enough to warrant a trip to the dentist’s office.
How to Find a Mobile Dentist
Mobile dentists follow a different service model from that of a traditional setup. They are generally mobile with a dental van equipped with modern equipment. This enables the dentist to provide care at your home.
In-home care is not as prevalent, and it may be challenging to find mobile dentists in your area.
- Online dental directories can be a great place to start looking.
- Ask your current dental care provider if they offer mobile services.
- Reach out to the local area hospitals and medical centers. Many of them provide dental service, too, along with other health facilities. In addition, you might want to check their website or directory for service providers.
- Take advantage of dental insurance. Many insurances cover the cost of dental emergencies. You can get coverage if you are enrolled in a plan that your company or employer manages.
- Some many dental clinics and offices can offer mobile services too. If not, they will be able to help find an in-home dentist nearest to where you live.
Cost of a Mobile Dental Visit
The cost of mobile dental care differs depending on the service provider and the treatments. Mobile clinics cost an average of $80 per hour for services with a minimum charge of two hours at the mobile clinic. However, if your treatment requires more time, that will be factored into the dental care costs.
Many insurance companies offer discount plans that help lower the cost. You can also ask about any fee assistance programs offered by service providers in your area if need be.
Mobile dental clinics may be more expensive than your traditional care. However, they provide benefits that are worth the cost. That makes any difference in cost negligible if you have better health and peace of mind.
You do not have to worry about costs as most mobile clinics are covered under Medicare and other health insurance. In any case, financial assistance and fee reduction programs can help lower the cost.
Why Should You Choose Board-Certified, Licensed Dentists?
If you are looking for dental care at home, find a dentist who has had training in handling emergencies. Moreover, they should have the necessary credentials, such as certification from the dental board.
- A mobile dentist must be qualified to ensure good dental treatment at home, which you deserve.
- A qualified dentist will be able to provide high-quality dental care and services. In addition, they will make sure that you are safe and comfortable during your dental check-up.
- They will be able to help you with your current health condition and also with any dental needs that you have.
Considering the above, you should look for board-certified service providers. Board certification is an assurance of quality dental care and services. In addition, the dentists must pass rigorous testing by the American Dental Association to prove their expertise in certain areas.
With a board-certified dentist, patient safety and health are his priority. Board certification means that the service providers are up-to-date with the latest developments. This way, they can provide their patients with up-to-date information about dental care.
Who Are Qualified to Receive Mobile Dentistry Services?
In-home dental care is a good choice for people who cannot travel far and still want to go to the dentist. If you are wondering whether you qualify for in-home dental service, it is best to ask your service provider.
They will be able to provide the dental services you need in-house, and then monitor your dental health at home. Generally, patients suffering from one or more of the following chronic conditions are eligible for in-home dental services:
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Visually Impaired
- Dementia
- Heart Disease
- Cognitive Disabilities
- Arthritis
- Paralysis
In-house dental services may be provided by a dentist, dental hygienist, or an assistant. The person who provides the service depends on the needs of the patient and their care plan.
What to Expect During Your First Visit with an In-Home Dentist
Your dentist will meet with you and your health care team to discuss treatments if there is an emergency.
During the dental visit, they will take x-rays and pictures of your teeth so that they can do an assessment. This way, they will be able to provide personalized care and services for your needs.
First, the patients will have a take an appointment both for dental care and emergencies. Following that, the team will assess the condition of your teeth and oral health. Then they can decide what you need in terms of the treatment plan.
Mobile Dentistry vs Traditional – Which Is Better?
Mobile dentistry is an alternative to the traditional setup for people who cannot travel far from their homes due to age or health limitations.
People who live in rural areas will benefit the most from this structure. It can be challenging for them to get to a dentist during an emergency. An in-home clinic often provides the same services as a dentist’s office, plus you don’t need to travel.
In a traditional setting, dental treatments are performed by the dentist in a clinic. Therefore, the quality of care in an office setting remains high. The main disadvantage is that you will have a limited schedule since you’re not treated at your home.
On the other hand, patients who cannot get out of their homes can take advantage of dental care in a home setting.
It is best to note that services at an office and clinic are pretty similar. But the main question here is which one do you prefer? If you have health issues or mobility problems, it’s better to go for a mobile clinic. But if you don’t have any limitations, the clinic may be the better option.
Conclusion
Mobile dentistry is a new trend in the dental industry. It brings a dental office to people who cannot travel far. The main advantage of this service is that the patients do not need to leave their homes. Moreover, they can also avoid long waiting lists at regular clinics. However, there are some disadvantages, too. For example, the care may be more expensive than a regular office visit.
Mobile dentistry is a good choice for elderly and disabled people who cannot travel far and still want treatment. If you are wondering whether you qualify for mobile dental services, it is best to ask your service provider. They will be able to provide the services you need in the clinic, and then monitor your oral health under a “mobile care” plan. Generally, patients with chronic conditions are eligible for mobile dentistry.
Here at Smile Perfection, Dr. Pandhi can perform nearly all the same procedures during dental house calls as in his office: fillings, root canals, crowns, bridges, restorative work, and periodontal treatments, including root planning and scaling. To schedule an appointment or speak with our team about our dental house calls in the Tucson, AZ area, please call 520-293-2166 or fill out the form on our Contact page.
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