We realize that this health crisis has changed the way patients can get access to dental care and this is even more true for seniors who are often at risk for health complications. To help with uncertainty and to better serve our senior community, The Gary and Mary West Senior Dental Center is now offering TELEDENTISTRY SERVICES to seniors who are having oral health concerns during this period of shelter-in-place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While our in-person clinical services are temporarily closed, seniors and their families can still call us at 619-795-1301, during normal business hours (Monday-Friday 8:00 am – 4:30 pm) to arrange for a consultation. In addition, we have a dentist on call for dental emergencies. How does Teledentistry work during our office closure?

• • Teledentistry, a form of Telehealth, utilizes a broad variety of technologies to deliver virtual oral healthcare and education services, including live video and phone. The Gary and Mary West Senior Dental Center can now offer our current or new patients with an oral health consultation from the convenience and safety of their home. In addition, we can screen patients for COVID-19 symptoms and refer them to a higher level of medical care if needed.

  • During the Teledentistry consultation, our dentist may review existing electronic dental records (using a secure electronic communications system), including X-rays, photographs and other health history information. Based on this information and the patient’s current concerns, our dentist will recommend the best course of dental care needed and determine whether the patient needs an in-person appointment, in which case we will refer them to a dental office we have made arrangements with so their dental need can be taken care of right away.

  • In addition, we have Patient Care Coordinators to provide reassurance and/or screen patients if seniors or their families have other medical, social or mental health concerns during the coming weeks and our team will address questions or direct them to other resources they may need.

  • During the COVID-19 temporary closure of our in-person clinical services, we are offering our Teledentistry consultations free of charge.

We are here for our senior community during this health crisis and in the future for their oral health needs. The Gary and Mary West Senior Dental Center is exclusively dedicated to caring for seniors and we offer our patients affordable, customized, age-specific oral health care. Our geriatric-trained staff treat patients with complex chronic conditions and mobility limitations and our approach is person-centered and highly compassionate to meet the needs of our older adult patients.

Give us a call today to get started at 619-795-1301