COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina lawmakers are considering a bill that would allow dentists to provide care virtually, with new rules aimed at preventing risks tied to mail-order orthodontics.
Teledentistry, which includes video visits or sharing records and X-rays online, was temporarily authorized by Gov. Henry McMaster during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dentists say the service proved useful for patients who could not access in-person care.
“Less than 1% of these people had to go to the emergency room within 30 days after their teledentistry visit,” said Dr. Thomas Edmonds of the South Carolina Dental Association. “Also, 85% of these patients ended up with a dental office visit within 90 days.”…