Content analysis of mobile-based digital dental consultation applications in India

Abstract

Aim: To conduct a content analysis of mobile-based Digital Dental Health Information System applications operating in India.
Oblectives: 
To evaluate types of communication used for dental consultation in digital dental information systems
To assess language options offered by individual dental information systems
To determine the nature of payment models used by digital dental information systems
To identify the availability of digital dental information systems on online application download platforms
Methods : A web-based, cross-sectional content analysis was conducted using applications identified from the Google Play Store and Apple iOS App Store. Search terms included dental apps, dentist apps, oral health care management, dental treatment app, dental service, and online dental consultation. A total of 253 applications were identified, of which 19 met the inclusion criteria of providing online dental consultations and/or appointment booking services in India. Data were extracted on communication modes, language options, payment models, and platform availability.
Results : All 19 applications provided online dental consultation services, while 84.21% also supported offline appointment booking. Telephonic consultation was the most common mode of communication (84.21%), followed by live chat (68.42%), email (63.15%), and text messaging (52.63%). English language support was available in 94.73% of applications, while Hindi and other regional languages were supported by 57.89%. Paid consultation models were used by 89.47% of applications, with limited free or membership-based services. Most applications were available on both Google Play Store (94.73%) and iOS App Store (89.47%).
Conclusion: Digital dental health applications that provide doctor consultations are becoming more and more popular in India, which demonstrates their enormous potential within the country. The government must provide enabling regulations that promote the broad acceptance and use of these applications.