- The dental industry is worth over $100 billion in the US and experiences rising costs of materials and treatments.
- The COVID-19 pandemic has affected dental care providers and led to delayed appointments, but postponing dental care can result in more serious health problems.
- Oral health problems are prevalent, with approximately 47.2% of adults over 30 in the US having some form of periodontal disease.
- Dental care can be expensive, but options like payment plans and Medicaid exist to help cover the costs.
- Emerging technologies like 3D printers, teledentistry, and AI have made dental services more affordable and accessible.
It’s no secret that good dental health is important, but with the ever-increasing dental care costs, it can be difficult to prioritize regular checkups and treatments. However, in today’s world, there are even more pressing reasons to ensure you care for your teeth and gums. From the COVID-19 pandemic to the rise of certain health conditions, there are many reasons why visiting a dentist is more important than ever. Read on to learn about the struggles of dentistry today and why you should prioritize your dental health.
Dentistry Today
First, it’s important to look into the dental industry today. Currently, it’s estimated that the industry is worth more than $100 billion in the US alone. This is due to a combination of increasing technology, rising costs of materials and treatments, as well as an aging population that needs more dental care. Here’s an in-depth look into the struggles of dentistry today:
The COVID-19 Pandemic
One of the biggest challenges facing dental care providers today is the COVID-19 pandemic. Dentists and their staff have had to adapt to new safety measures and protocols, such as wearing personal protective equipment and taking extra precautions during procedures. Additionally, many people have delayed routine dental appointments and procedures due to concerns about the virus. However, it’s important to remember that postponing dental care can lead to more serious health problems down the line.
The Rise of Oral Health Conditions
While there has been progress in addressing many health issues in recent years, oral health problems remain a major concern. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 47.2% of adults over 30 in the United States have some form of periodontal disease. Additionally, conditions such as tooth decay and oral cancer are also prevalent. Regular dental checkups can help catch these issues early and prevent them from becoming more serious.
The Cost of Dental Care
The cost of dental care is another major concern for many people. Without insurance, even routine dental procedures such as cleanings and fillings can be expensive, and more complex procedures can cost thousands of dollars. However, there are options available for those who need help paying for dental care. Many dentists offer payment plans or financing options, and there are also programs such as Medicaid that can help cover the cost of certain dental treatments.
The Importance of Good Dental Health
Now more than ever, good dental health is essential for overall well-being. Poor oral health has been linked to various health conditions including heart disease and diabetes. Additionally, regular dental visits can help catch oral cancer and other serious conditions early on. Taking care of your teeth and gums can also help improve your self-confidence and overall quality of life.
How Emerging Technologies Are Dealing With These Struggles
Thankfully, certain technologies are helping to make dentistry more accessible and cost-effective. Here are some of them:
3D Printers
Printers have been around for quite some time. However, the most recent technology that came from printers is 3D printers. 3D printing for dentistry are capable of making customized dental prostheses and other treatments. Moreover, with the use of CAD/CAM technology, 3D printing can help make complex dental procedures more efficient. 3D printing has made dental services much more affordable and accessible to many people.
Teledentistry
Teledentistry has also been a huge breakthrough in the dental industry, making it easier for patients to access care. Through teledentistry, consultations and other services can be done virtually over the phone or via video chat. This has made it much more convenient for those who have difficulty getting to the dentist due to transportation or scheduling issues.
AI
Another emerging technology is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in dentistry. AI can be used to perform complex dental treatments quickly and accurately, as well as diagnose and monitor existing conditions. The technology is also being used to give personalized treatment recommendations based on a patient’s medical history.
The field of dentistry has been greatly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as rising costs and oral health conditions. However, emerging technologies have made it easier for patients to access care and get the treatment they need at an affordable price. By taking the time to prioritize your dental health and make regular visits to a dentist, you can help ensure that you’re doing all you can to stay healthy and keep your smile looking its best.
