Economic growth of the dental profession: comparisons with other health care sectors

Future demand for dental care in Norway; a macro‐economic perspective

“…There are few studies where the impact of economic factors on future demand for dental care has been assessed, and those that do exist are from the United States. The main conclusion from these studies is that dentistry in the United States is a growth industry; that is, the dental care sector has grown faster, in real terms, than the economy as a whole (15,(17)(18)(19). For example, from 1950 to 1977, the dental industry grew at an annual rate of 4.5% (17).…”

“…From an economic point of view, there are two major reasons for the growth in the dental care sector in the United States: a growth in gross national income (GNP) and an increase in dental insurance (15,19). Most attention has been paid to the increase in dental insurance.…”

“…Most attention has been paid to the increase in dental insurance. In 1967, only 4.5 million Americans were covered by a dental insurance scheme (19). In 1985, 95 million people were covered (19).…”

“…In 1967, only 4.5 million Americans were covered by a dental insurance scheme (19). In 1985, 95 million people were covered (19). An insurance scheme, particularly if it is provided as an employment benefit, increases dental care demand through two mechanisms: first, it lowers the price for dental care.…”

“…In the United States, the growth in employer-provided insurance coverage has been an important determinant for the growth in the dental care sector (15,19). In Norway, there is more control over costs.…”