Bad Economy Affecting U.S.'s Dental Habits

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Dental News: Tough Times For Dental Providers
The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that over than 50% of dentists have been losing money throughout 2009 because less patients are seeing their dentist, prompting many general practice dentists to rethink how they operate their practice and instilling worry about the long-term health effects of so many people skipping appointments.

Despite the fact that more dentists are willing to offer discounts and keep later hours, it seems that many people are still reluctant to shell out money for dental care. Of the dentists surveyed nationally by the ADA, about 40 percent said they delayed retirement because of the recession and 46% said they put off buying new equipment.

To combat the declining numbers of Americans going to the dentist, some dentists are offering payment plans and partnering with third-party credit companies for the first time. One dentist -- Dr. Kevin Krause of Sarasota Florida -- is offering a basic exam and X-rays for only $1. "Business is down about 25% over last year," Krause said.

Less Dental Care Means Less Dental Health
Despite tough economic times, dentists warned that some dental care cannot be neglected or the result will be advanced gum disease and tooth loss. "Just because your gum disease doesn't hurt doesn't mean it isn't progressing," says Sarasota dentist Dr. Cory Warrenbrand. "Studies have shown that gum disease can lead to heart disease. I think sometimes people lose track of how dental health effects overall health. We are health care providers, not just tooth doctors."

But the overarching economics of neglecting dental care are also proving to be foreboding as putting off regular dental visits lead to bigger and more expensive dental bills later on. The National Institute of Health estimates that for every $1 spent on preventive dental work (cleanings, exams, and x-rays) results in savings of $4 in restorative dentistry such as root canals and fillings.