Dentists are expensive because of high operational expenses. These include rent, staff salaries, and the costs of purchasing, upgrading, and maintaining dental equipment.
Additionally, dentists undergo extensive education to practice, which can be costly.
They also invest in furthering their education, obtaining and renewing their licenses, and adhering to regulatory compliance and quality standards. All these come at a cost, which may drive up the cost of dental services.
Eager to know why dentists charge higher fees for their services? We discuss the reasons in detail below.
Understanding Overhead Costs in Dental Practices
Overhead costs like rent—which make up about 6% to 9% of dentists’ income—can affect dental costs. Utilities like water and electricity are other contributing factors.
And don’t forget staff salaries.
Dentists have hygienists, front desk receptionists, and technicians who help reduce their workloads and improve patients’ care in the dental office. The higher the number of staff, the more salaries they have to pay.
This adds to their overhead cost, which may be reflected in the fees they charge patients.
Insurance is another overhead cost.
Dentists are required by law to have certain types of insurance. These insurance, such as business insurance, indemnity insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, malpractice insurance, etc., are expensive and must be renewed annually.
Investment in Specialized Equipment and Technology
Dentists require specialized dental tools like digital X-rays, lasers, and advanced diagnostic tools to perform dental procedures.
They also need sterilization tools like autoclaves and ovens to kill germs and bacteria on instruments, preventing the transmission of infectious agents.
Procuring and maintaining dental equipment can be expensive.
Likewise, upgrading specialized equipment to meet industry standards can cost a fortune. These costs may be factored into the fee charged for dental procedures, making dental care expensive.
High Cost of Dental Education and Training
Extensive Education Requirements
Dentists invest a lot of effort and resources into their education. They spend four years pursuing a bachelor’s degree at a college and four years in dental school.
Altogether, a dentist spends 8 years to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to practice their profession.
During these 8 years, they take multiple courses and exams and partake in clinical practices. Additionally, they spend a lot on books, tuition fees, and day-to-day expenses.
All these costs could weigh heavily on students, forcing them to take out loans that have to be repaid when they start working. This is one of the reasons why dental treatments cost so much.
Continuing Education and Specialized Training
For most dentists, learning doesn’t stop after graduating from dental school.
As the dental field evolves, dentists are required to stay up-to-date. Hence, they invest in continuing education and specialized training, which can be expensive.
The costs associated with continuing education and specialized training may add to the cost of dental treatment, which is why dental fees are high.
Licensing and Certification Expenses
Dentists need certification if they choose to specialize in a certain field.
Getting one can be expensive.
Additionally, all dentists in the United States need licensing to practice. Like certification, getting a dental license isn’t easy.
First, prospective dentists must graduate from an American Dental Association-accredited dental school with a DDS or DMD degree. Next, they must pass the written parts of the National Board Dental Exam. In most states, students are required to write a clinical examination.
All these come with costs that may increase dental fees.
Regulatory Compliance and Quality Standards
Dentists are required to adhere to regulatory compliance and quality standards. OSHA standards are an example. They are requirements that employers must follow to protect employees from hazards.
Though helpful, implementing them comes with a lot of expenses.
Whether it is the cost of investing in safety equipment or conducting safety training for workers, implementing OSHA standards can increase dental costs.
In addition to OSHA, dentists must follow the ADA guidelines for infection control. These guidelines help prevent and stop the transmission of infections in dental clinics.
Like OSHA, implementing the guideline can be expensive as it involves procuring sterilization tools such as autoclaves, sterilizers, and instrument washers.
Finally, dentists are required to comply with state dental boards.
To do that, they need to obtain and renew licenses and certifications, comply with state-specific standard dental practices, etc. These can contribute to dentist’s expenses, increasing dental costs.
Conclusion
Dentists invest heavily in running their businesses and obtaining the knowledge, skills, and licenses they need to practice dentistry.
This is why they charge high fees. Regardless, you mustn’t compromise your dental health by seeking low-quality dental care.
Investing in quality care will help maintain your overall oral health and well-being while helping you save money. Prioritizing regular dental checkups and obtaining dental insurance plans are other ways to save money on your dental expenses.
FAQs
Which dental treatment is the most expensive?
Restorative procedures like fillings, dental veneers, crowns, dentures, root canals, and implants are some of the most expensive treatments. Procedures associated with aesthetic and cosmetic dentistry cases, like crowns, fillings, etc. may cost more as well. Preventive services like routine cleanings are considered the least expensive dental work.
How can you save money on dental costs?
You can save money on dental costs by practicing good oral hygiene and scheduling regular dental checkups. Exploring financial options, patronizing dentists with affordable dental care payment plans, and looking for insurance coverage that suits your budget can also help.
Why are dentists so expensive in the U.S.?
Dentists are so expensive in the U.S. because of the high operational costs. These include the cost of equipping and renting a dental office, paying staff salaries and utility bills, etc. Certain procedures can also contribute to high dental costs, as they require the skills of specialists.
How can I fix my teeth if I don’t have money?
You can fix your teeth without money by applying for Medicaid or visiting community health centers or dental schools. They all offer dental treatment for free or at a low cost.
