Insider Update

Updated February 2026

Some employees may find it hard to create time for dental appointments or be seen for urgent issues. Teledentistry is a valuable benefit for your clients' employees. Whether at home or traveling, members can access a dental consultation virtually, by video or photo, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our partner, Teledentistry.com, has in-network dentists who are available for dental emergencies, reviewing issues, providing a second opinion and prescribing medications when members need it most.
 

What is teledentistry?


Teledentistry, also known as virtual dentistry, is a service in which a dentist performs a consultation via phone or video to diagnose dental issues, offer care advice and determine appropriate treatment, which may include a prescription or in-person follow-up visit.

Teledentistry appointments can consist of a video visit, in which the dentist and patient are interacting with each other in real-time. It can also be a photo of the patient’s issue that is sent to the dentist, who sends a reply later.
 

What virtual dentistry resources does Delta Dental offer?


We offer both video and photo virtual dentistry services through Teledentistry.com. Your clients’ employees can book an appointment online for video appointments. It’s totally secure and HIPAA-compliant, and it’s easy for members to connect with a dentist to get virtual consultations, e‑prescriptions and check-ins.

Members can also submit photos of their issue to a Delta Dental dentist, who will assess the issue and send a comprehensive diagnostic report with the results, treatment options and cost estimates.
 

Do members need special equipment for virtual dentistry appointments?


Beyond an internet-connected computer or mobile device with a camera, no special equipment is required for virtual dentistry appointments.
 

Why would employees want to use virtual dentistry if they can visit the dentist in person?

Virtual dentistry appointments can be a convenient way for employees to fit dental care into otherwise busy schedules. With virtual dentistry, they can book a video appointment or submit a photo without having to travel to see a dentist. They can also use these appointments:

• When they’re feeling ill or don’t wish to travel to the dentist’s office
• When urgent issues arise while they’re out of town away from their usual dentist
• When they need a second opinion
• When they want to talk to a Delta Dental dentist outside of regular office hours
   

Is virtual dentistry covered by all Delta Dental plans?


Generally, yes. For Delta Dental PPO™ plans that cover diagnostic and preventive (D&P) services at 100%, virtual dentistry appointments are unlimited up to the plan’s maximum. The member will pay the provider directly for any coinsurance or deductible due. Virtual assessments don't count toward exam frequency limitations and are a covered benefit for Delta Dental PPO™ and Delta Dental Premier® members.

Virtual consultations for DeltaCare« USA members are a covered benefit when performed by their assigned contract dentist; using any other virtual‑care provider is not considered in-network. Services provided by a dentist other than the member's contract dentist are considered out of network and may result in an out-of-pocket cost.
 

Where can I get more information about virtual dentistry services for my clients?

To promote these resources, you can direct clients to our website, where their employees can learn more about virtual dentistry.