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A virtual smile consultation is available to patients interested in cosmetic dental procedures. These patients are looking for a way to improve appearance but may be too busy to come in and see the dentist in person. A virtual consult allows patients a convenient way to get the necessary information regarding cosmetic oral procedures and treatments that may be of benefit.

What are the benefits of a virtual smile consultation?

A virtual consultation saves patients time. It is no longer necessary to schedule a visit with a dentist and sit in a chair for sometimes hours at a time. A virtual consultation allows a dentist to pre-screen patients and determine treatment options before the patient ever sets foot in the office. As a result, the time that the patient and dentist do share in the office can be spent more efficiently.

A smile consultation informs patients of all the available treatment options. Patients do not have to wait until the office is open. The consultation can be completed on the patient’s own time, which offers the patients greater convenience by avoiding the hassle of an initial office visit.

Many people feel anxiety about visiting the dentist. A virtual smile consultation allows contact between a dentist and a patient in a non-threatening way. This allows the patient to start building a rapport with the dentist, which may help to ease the anxiety and make it easier for the patient to visit with the dentist in person when the time comes.

How does a virtual smile consultation work?

A virtual smile consultation leverages the power of communication technology to allow patients to connect with a dentist from the comfort of home.

1. Photographs

The first step is for the patient to send one or more photographs to the dentist for evaluation. The dentist will indicate the number and type of photographs required. Some only require a selfie-style photograph of a smiling mouth from the front. Others require front and side photographs with lips open or closed.

For patients with a smartphone, it is a simple matter to take the required photographs using the front-facing camera to submit via the form found on the dentist’s website. The form also asks patients to describe the desired outcomes of cosmetic dental treatment.

2. Video response

The dentist reviews the patient’s photographs and information provided through the form, then records a video message for the patient. This video includes detailed information about available treatment options. The recommendations are individualized to each patient.

3. Patient review

The patient receives the video from the dentist digitally. When convenient, the patient reviews the video and considers the different treatment options. Upon making a decision, the patient schedules an appointment with the dentist by contacting the office.

Conclusion

A virtual smile confrontation is a useful tool for a patient interested in cosmetic dentistry to improve appearance. It is convenient for the patient, saves time and helps to reduce the anxiety of visiting the dentist’s office.

Request an appointment here or call Dallas Laser Dentistry at (469) 838-5292 for an appointment in our Dallas office.

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