The prevention of cavities remains a primary goal for the dental profession.
A recent study that was published in the Value in Health highlights the disparity between the normal practice of a dental clinic and the model of care that is based on evidence in terms of prevention intervention and diagnosis.
The primary objective of the study was to review the cost effectiveness and efficacy of a non invasive approach to the management of dental cavities within numerous private dental practices that were located in Australia.
This program, which was non invasive, proved effective in the reduction of recurrent cavities as well as the incidence of new cavities during the 3 years the study was conducted by over 40%.
These results were independent of previous history of dental cavities, fluoride history, medical status, gender, or age in a population of patients that received dental treatment in private dental practices.
In addition, it would appear that the program was also somewhat cost effective when it is compared to the existing dental care practice for patients that were categorized at medium to high risk of developing dental cavities.
It is unfortunate that dental care has moved towards more of an interventionist model. The current remuneration and payment rebate process is weighted more towards rewarding the number of the crowns that are fitted and the fillings that performed. This system that has only recently been adopted for the early diagnosis of cavities and has created the opportunities for the action that is necessary to prevent cavities.
There is a current shift in the resources towards the more expensive cosmetic procedures, and although understandable, it is creating an access issue and a resource that will require the collaboration of all who are in the profession including researchers, dental funders, and patients. This study is very much as a first step towards defining and hopefully addressing the problem.
From: Dental Health Magazine
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