Dentists are smiling, even in the recession
Filed under: Budgets, Insurance, Health, Relationships
Dentistry appears to be one profession that the recession might not bite. The 17 % average profit margin of dentists' offices was higher than that of any other industry in 2008, according to Sageworks, which uses data from 9,000 CPA firms across the country. Aside from tooth grinding and other nervous habits that bring folks to the dentist, insurance issues appear to be driving the profits.
More and more folks are losing their dental insurance and are skipping cleanings and other preventive care to save money. So when they do go to the dentist they need more expensive treatment to alleviate the pain. And while many of us will endure physical pain, very few of us will walk around with an aching mouth. In fact, if you are like me, you will go to almost any lengths to keep an attractive smile and a good bite.
I have had braces as an adult, porcelain crowns put on most of my molars, and more root canals that I can count. I have had peroxide cleanings, bonding put on the front teeth and whitening. I have the most beautiful smile that money can buy.
I'm not alone. In spite of the economy, cosmetic dentistry is booming. Sales of Snap-On Smile, a device that fits over your teeth, rose 22% in the fourth quarter of '08 compared with the third quarter. December sales were 62% higher than those in October. People want to look good even when times are bad.
The standard for smiles has changed, of course. When I was growing up, only kids with REALLY crooked teeth got braces, and we all felt sorry for them. Now, most kids get braces at least once, sometimes twice. It is very unusual to see people younger than thirty with crooked teeth. My own daughter has never had a cavity. I remember having a half dozen at a time. Glad those days are gone.
Barbara Bartlein is the People Pro. For her FREE e-mail newsletter, please visit: The People Pro
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
3-12-2009 @ 7:09PM
David said...
I guess this article means that of all the things folks can invest in in this economy, quality dentistry is perceived as being a worthwhile investment of lasting value.
And yes, I am a dentist.
Reply
3-22-2009 @ 11:26PM
rmarie said...
Well, we all need dental health care and you are right most people don't have dental coverage. Some companies will give you healthcare but not dental care coverage. Mostly because it is so expensive to have health and dental care coverage. Thats why should check out this plan that i have which is so affordable.
www.EveryOneBenefits.com/rms
Reply
5-15-2009 @ 4:52PM
Nika4 said...
Wow, what an out ot touch article. Unfortunately, where I live, people are having teeth pulled when they can't afford the ultra expensive dental work they require. Or, they are going to foreign countries, such as Mexico, to get quality dental work for a fraction of the cost. Dental work is out of sight financially for more and more individuals, particularly if you don't have insurance. And cosmetic dental work? Ha. I don't know of too many people who can afford such a luxury in this economic climate.
Reply
5-21-2009 @ 7:56AM
Sandra Bekhor said...
Unfortunately, some Dentists are feeling the pinch of the recession. Here is a resource article that discusses the behaviours, skill sets and systems necessary for Dentists and other professionals to navigate a changed and ever-changing marketplace: http://torontomarketing.blogspot.com/2009/04/winning-in-recession-primer-for.html
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5-31-2009 @ 3:47AM
hannah said...
I was surprised to see quality level of Three levels of tooth whitening / bleaching are available on my previous visited dentist.
Natural Tooth Whitening: Take home tooth whitening kits with trays.
Movie Star Tooth Whitening: office teeth bleaching for immediate results. They use Zoom 2 Advanced Power to achieve the results you crave.
Pageant Tooth Whitening; The ultimate in tooth whitening, A disciplined regime including polishing, in office and take home elements. This is "Miss America" white.
If u are want the same level of quality treatment visit them at
Tooth whitening
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