Video consultation with the dentist: useful or overrated?
( 2026 Guide )

Video consultations in dentistry (teledentistry) are becoming increasingly important and are gaining relevance for dental practices in Vienna and across Europe. The key question is to what extent digital consultations can help engage patients in a modern way, improve access to dental care, and sustainably strengthen patient loyalty.

What are video consultations in dentistry?

Video consultations are a teleconferencing tool for dentists that—similar to Zoom or Microsoft Teams—enable real-time video calls between dentists and patients via computers and smartphones. Originally established in the United States, teledentistry has increasingly evolved into a tool for improving access to dental care.

The use of video consultations in Europe, and particularly in Austria, has increased significantly since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. However, compared to the United States, it still remains a niche offering.

Development of teledentistry since 2020 (Europe & Austria)

Trend development since 2020:

The boom (2020–2023):

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns, the use of video consultations increased dramatically and was approximately 60 times higher in 2020 than before the pandemic.

Post-pandemic phase (since 2024):

After dental practices reopened, usage declined but still remains around 15 times higher than in 2019 (as of Q4 2025).

Usage intensity & forecast until 2030

Market penetration:

Around 25% of dentists in Europe have used video consultations at least once since 2020.

Depth of usage:

Currently, most dentists use teledentistry only occasionally—typically for less than 5 hours per month.

Teledentistry forecast 2030:

By 2030, approximately 30% of all dentists could use video consultations for initial consultations and simple check-ups.

Patient behavior & demand for video consultations

Patient interest:

Around 50% of German patients can imagine using video consultations for dental advice or follow-up checks.

Patient satisfaction:

More than 70% of patients perceive video consultations as smooth and helpful—but not as a full replacement for in-person consultations.

Quick Answer (for Google Featured Snippet)

Do video consultations in dentistry make sense?
Yes, video consultations are a useful complementary tool for dentists—especially for initial consultations, follow-ups, and advice. However, they do not replace physical examinations and are currently used primarily as a supplement in Vienna.

Since video consultations are still used relatively infrequently in Vienna, this trend continues to be closely monitored. At the same time, many providers rely on integrated messaging systems for direct patient communication.

When are video consultations used in dentistry?

In Europe—including Austria—video consultations are primarily used as a complementary service, particularly for:

• Initial consultations and medical history assessments
• Discussion of findings
• Preventive care consultations
• Simple follow-up examinations (e.g., for dental aligners)

Use cases of teledentistry in Vienna:

• Treatment planning (45%)
• Emergency triage (39%)
• Post-treatment check-ins (31%)

Since dental treatments typically require a physical examination of the oral cavity, video consultations remain limited to non-invasive diagnostic and advisory purposes.

➡️ Conclusion:
Video consultations are gaining importance as an innovative complementary tool but do not replace traditional in-person treatment.

The focus therefore remains on complementary digital communication solutions and hybrid approaches in patient care.

Costs of video consultations in Vienna (teledentistry pricing)

The costs for video consultation software for dentists in Vienna vary depending on the provider and features:

• Monthly costs: approx. €20 to €100
• One-time costs:
  • Interface integration: approx. €350
  • Digital signature certificates: approx. €120

Costs for patients:

• A 15–30 minute video consultation costs on average around €110
• Partial reimbursement by insurance is possible

What does teledentistry mean for your dental practice?

To optimize patient communication and online presence, integrated platform solutions are increasingly available to dentists in Vienna.

Overview of services:

• 100% free 24/7 messaging system
• Online appointment booking including calendar
• Google Ads for targeted patient acquisition
• SEO-optimized online presence
• Social media marketing (4+ exclusive posts per month)
• Monthly performance analytics & tracking
• 100% secure review system including QR code

ROI: Is it worth it?

➡️ Fixed price: from €99 (gross) per month

Many practices gain an average of 10+ new patients per month.

With a conservative value of €100 revenue per patient, this results in:
➡️ €1,000+ additional monthly revenue

➡️ Just 2 new patients per month can fully cover the costs.
 

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Video Consultations in Dentistry

Are video consultations with a dentist useful?

Yes, they are particularly suitable for consultations, initial assessments, and follow-ups, but they do not replace physical examinations.

How much does a video consultation with a dentist cost in Vienna?

On average about €110 for 15–30 minutes, with possible partial reimbursement by insurance.

How many dentists currently use teledentistry?

Around 25% of dentists in Europe have used video consultations at least once, though usually with low usage intensity.

What are video consultations most commonly used for?

Mainly for treatment planning, emergency triage, and post-treatment check-ins.

Will video consultations become more important in the future?

Yes, forecasts indicate that by 2030 around 30% of dentists could regularly use teledentistry for simple consultations.