Four things to know:
1. In 2021, national dental expenditures increased to $162 billion — an 11 percent increase from $146 billion in 2020.
2. Medicare and Medicaid spending increased by approximately $2 billion each.
3. Private health insurance spending increased by 11 percent while out-of-pocket spending increased by 13 percent.
4. In 2021, funding from COVID-19 government relief programs to the dental sector totaled $7 billion. Without these programs, the ADA’s Health Policy Institute estimates that 2021 national dental spending would have been $155 billion — still above pre-pandemic levels, according to the article.
At the Becker's 5th Annual Future of Dentistry Roundtable, taking place November 12–14 in Chicago, dental leaders and executives will gain insights into emerging technologies, practice growth strategies and the evolving landscape of dental care delivery, with a focus on innovation, patient experience and operational excellence. Apply for complimentary registration now.
