Whatsapp platform as a teledentistry tool in oral and maxillofacial pathologies in Senegal

Abstract

Objective: To study the contribution of teledentistry, via the WhatsApp application of the “Dentists of Senegal”, on the management of oral and maxillofacial pathology. Material and Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. The study took place over a period of 3 months, from 1 October to December 30, 2020. This study was conducted on the WhatsApp group platform of the Senegalese Dentists. A total of 150 communications were included. Results: Public sector dentists sent more communications, 88% of the communications. By specialty, general practitioners had sent more communications, 82.7% of communications. For the oral surgery receiver site, 71% of communications were received. 65% of referring dentists had given a diagnosis. Patients with tumours and cysts represented more than half of the sample (53.3%) followed by trauma patients (18.6%). The most common infections were cellulitis (46.66%) and osteitis (33.33%). Oral and maxillofacial surgeons managed 69.33% of the pathology. Conclusion: WhatsApp is a fundamental contribution to the remote diagnosis and management of oral and maxillofacial pathologies, especially during the current covid-19 pandemic.

Keywords

• WhatsApp
• Oral pathology
• Maxillofacial pathology
• Senegal