In-Review: Perspectives of Front-Line Clinicians and Remote Reviewers on Smartphone-Based Photography for Assessing Traumatic Dental Injuries: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Mobile health (mHealth) is increasingly utilized in teledentistry for telediagnosis and other services, yet the perceptions of front-line and end-line users regarding these technologies in dentistry remained unexplored. Objective: This study examined the acceptability, feasibility, and usability of an mHealth model for telediagnosis from the perspectives of front-line and end-line users. Methods: A qualitative design using focus group interviews was employed. Participants (N=15) included front-line clinicians who captured dental photos via a smartphone app and remote reviewers who assessed the photos through an mHealth platform. Transcriptions of the audio-recorded interviews were analyzed thematically using consensus coding. Results: Thematic analysis identified nine key themes: feasibility and perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, compatibility, self-image and social influences, self-efficacy, voluntariness and behavior intention, anxiety, facilitating conditions, and attitudes toward a behavior. Participants considered smartphone-based photography acceptable, feasible, and usable for remote dental assessment. Facilitators and barriers to implementing the mHealth model were highlighted, and recommendations for improvements were proposed. Conclusion: Cyclical education and professional development are essential to boosting user self-efficacy and technology usability. Addressing resistance from patients and clinicians through targeted education, effective communication, and operational enhancements can facilitate adoption. Suggested improvements include incorporating camera grids, integrating with patient management systems, and streamlining login processes. This study highlights the significant potential of mHealth in the initial assessment of emergency cases and patient screening, particularly benefiting underserved populations and fostering interprofessional collaboration in emergency departments. Future research should explore broader clinical applications, including other oral health conditions.