Dentistry facing 'fiscal squeeze'
Financial pressure in dentistry continues, and new data from the ADA reveals how it is impacting practices. With pricing pressure front-of-mind, we look at tips for finding the right number of patients.
Plus, we dive into some of the latest research that links heart attacks and oral bacteria, as well as hope for a new way to treat gum disease.
But first, check out how often people go to the dentist in different countries.
Are heart attacks an infectious disease? Researchers found a common bacteria that cause dental plaque inside arterial plaques. The results of their study suggest that chronic dental infections could lead to heart attacks.
Fighting gum disease without antibiotics. Morin, a natural compound found in certain nuts, fruits and teas, could be a natural alternative to antibiotics for the treatment of periodontal disease.
Delta Dental buys in Wisconsin. Local Wisconsin dentists voice their concerns about Delta Dental's purchase of a practice chain in the state.
Teledentistry as a first-line emergency response. DSO Arrow Dental recently partnered with a virtual care platform to give patients access to after-hours emergency care.
How many patients do you actually need? Using data can help practice owners understand patient attrition and set goals for new patient numbers to ensure practice sustainability and growth.
ADA data: The 'fiscal squeeze'
The American Dental Association (ADA) Health Policy Institute released new data on the dental economy. The report finds that the industry is facing an ongoing "fiscal squeeze." Costs are going up, and patient demand is going down. Dental practices also continue to struggle with filling open roles.
Why it matters: High-level data like this can help dentists understand industry-wide challenges and build strategies to address those challenges at the practice level. (ADA)
Understanding oral health and patient shame
Poor oral health can have far-reaching consequences for patients. Decay and missing teeth have a social and psychological impact that can produce significant shame and impact quality of life. The stigma of poor oral health highlights the importance of increasing access to dental care.
Why it matters: Understanding how shame impacts patients with oral health issues is an important step toward getting them the dental care that they need. (The Conversation)
Get ready for student loan repayment changes
Student debt is a significant burden for many dentists, and there are some significant policy changes that they should know. A quick episode of "The Dentist Money Show" covers how these changes will impact dentists. For example, current income-driven repayment plans are being phased out. Impacted dentists will need to consider what that means for their monthly payments.
Why it matters: Many dentists carry significant student loan debt, which impacts their personal and business finances. (The Dentist Money Show)
- How receptionists can help grow cosmetic dentistry practices
- $100k grant to help Connecticut nonprofit improve oral health for older adults
- Maine university receives $250k to strengthen dental hygiene workforce
- When does dental anxiety start?
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Dental Bite is curated and written by Carrie Pallardy and edited by Lesley McKenzie.
