Dental Care Recovery: Trends and Changes Post-Pandemic
Insights on Preventive Dental Care Recovery
New data presents a promising picture for preventive dental care, showcasing a robust recovery among insured Americans.
According to recent findings by Delta Dental, the utilization of dental care services has significantly bounced back following the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Alongside this recovery, interesting shifts in treatment patterns and patient behavior have emerged, indicating evolving needs.
Data Overview and Findings
The study's analysis focused on dental care procedure volumes from 2020 to 2023, directly comparing these figures against pre-pandemic averages from 2017 to 2019. This comprehensive examination revealed that preventive and diagnostic procedures have rebounded almost entirely to their pre-pandemic levels, offering hope and reassurance for both practitioners and patients alike.
Key Changes in Procedure Preferences
While the overall recovery is heartening, the analysis also highlighted key changes in treatment preferences. For instance, direct restorations—such as fillings—saw a noticeable decline, whereas indirect restorations, like crowns, experienced an increase. This trend was particularly prominent among adults aged 19 to 64.
Additionally, while preventive and diagnostic care has shown signs of resurgence, there has been a continued rise in the usage of night guards. Conversely, emergency and surgical procedures in younger adults have witnessed a decrease, reflecting a potential shift in the approach to oral health management in this demographic.
Understanding the Evolving Landscape
Dr. Jeffrey Chaffin, Chief Dental Officer at Delta Dental, emphasizes that these trends suggest that although access to routine dental care is on the rise, the specific treatments patients are receiving—and the management of their oral health issues—have evolved significantly since the pandemic began. Factors contributing to this evolution include clinical, behavioral, and economic elements that have been present ever since dental practices started to reopen.
Commitment to Research and Improvement
Delta Dental actively conducts research by analyzing national dental care claims data. This commitment is integral to delivering insightful, data-driven solutions aimed at enhancing oral and overall health for all communities.
With an active role in advancing oral wellness, Delta Dental's efforts extend beyond just providing services; they strive to improve the overall health landscape through their ongoing initiatives.
Delta Dental Plans Association
Located in Chicago, Illinois, the Delta Dental Plans Association represents a national network of independent Delta Dental companies. This collaborative works towards being the largest dental benefits provider in the nation, boasting one of the country’s most extensive networks, with around 151,000 participating dentists. Over the past decade and a half, Delta Dental companies have invested over $2.3 billion to uplift the oral and overall health of communities.
About the Delta Dental Institute
The Delta Dental Institute is dedicated to promoting oral health across America by collaborating with Delta Dental companies and committed organizations. Rooted in Delta Dental’s tradition of strong oral health advocacy, the Institute supports research, community outreach, and public awareness initiatives designed to emphasize the critical connection between oral health and overall well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main finding of the recent Delta Dental study?
The study indicates a significant recovery in preventive dental care, returning to near pre-pandemic levels.
What changes in dental care usage were observed after the pandemic?
Notable trends include a decline in direct restorations and an increase in night guard usage among patients.
Who is Dr. Jeffrey Chaffin?
Dr. Jeffrey Chaffin is the Chief Dental Officer at Delta Dental and a key figure in the study's insights on post-pandemic dental care trends.
What is the role of the Delta Dental Institute?
The Institute advances oral health initiatives in the U.S., focusing on research and advocacy to improve accessibility and awareness.
How significant has Delta Dental’s contribution to community health been?
Delta Dental has invested over $2.3 billion in enhancing oral and overall health in communities over the last 15 years.
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