Leveraging Digital Innovations for Universal Oral Health Coverage: Evaluation of a Teledentistry Programme from Indonesia

Abstract Background As the global burden of oral diseases rises, cost-effective solutions are needed to overcome accessibility barriers in oral healthcare. In Indonesia, geographical challenges further limit access to dental services. Teledentistry has emerged as a promising intervention to bridge these gaps by enhancing access to professional guidance and promoting better oral hygiene practices. This paper evaluates a Teledentistry initiative that aims to support progress towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for oral health. Methods This mixed-methods study evaluated the effectiveness of Unilever Oral Care’s Teledentistry initiative (the Tanya Pepsodent “Talk to a Dentist” programme) rolled out in Indonesia. The quantitative component compared oral health outcomes between individuals who voluntarily used an app (test group) and those who did not (control group). The qualitative component involved in-depth interviews with dentists to assess the app’s usability and feasibility in providing dental care. Results Quantitative findings showed that test group respondents adopted better brushing habits and experienced fewer difficulties with chewing and speech. They also demonstrated a stronger recognition of the importance of dental care by intending to reduce the interval between dental visits. Qualitative findings revealed that dentists viewed the teledentistry service as an efficient alternative due to its flexible availability, including on weekends. They also noted that it helped reduce dental anxiety among patients. However, some challenges were identified, including long wait times and usability difficulties. Conclusions The Teledentistry service enhanced oral health awareness and brushing behaviours, demonstrating its potential as an accessible digital health tool. While it fosters proactive oral care habits, maintaining long-term engagement may require continued professional support. These findings provide valuable insights into the role of Teledentistry in promoting oral health, though further research is needed to assess its sustained impact over time.