Trends and Insights from Cetas Healthcare’s 2023 Global Dental Survey: A Guide for Dental Manufacturers
In the dynamic world of dental healthcare, staying ahead of the curve is vital for manufacturers who aim to meet the evolving needs of General Practitioner (GP) dentists. Cetas Healthcare’s extensive survey in March 2023 serves as a beacon, illuminating the preferences, practices, and patterns that are shaping dental care globally. Here’s what dental manufacturers need to know from the insights gathered from 487 GP dentists specializing in Orthodontics and Restorative treatments across AMS, APAC, and EU5 markets.
The Dominance of Restorative Dentistry
Restorative procedures are not just a mainstay but the cornerstone of modern dental practice revenue, contributing to a striking 38% of the income for an average GP dentist. For manufacturers, this means there’s a significant market for restorative materials, instruments, and equipment. Products that enhance the efficiency and outcomes of restorative treatments, such as crowns and posts, could see increased demand.
The Pulse of Procedures
With an average of 10 crowns or partial crowns procedures performed weekly by GP dentists, the crown is king in restorative dentistry. And with posts and cores not far behind, manufacturers have clear indicators of which product lines to prioritize. Furthermore, the survey noted a consistent performance of two implant cases per week across most countries, signifying a steady market for implant-related products.
Disparities in Dental Implants
The survey highlighted diverging trends in dental implant techniques. While bone grafting is predominant in the US, Spain, and the UK, France and Germany are more reticent. Manufacturers could explore opportunities in educational initiatives or specialized product development to cater to conservative markets.
Clear Aligners: The Clear Winner in Orthodontics
The preference for clear aligners over traditional braces is a trend that cannot be ignored, with 7 out of 10 GP dentists recommending them. This is a clarion call for manufacturers to innovate in clear aligner systems, especially in markets like Germany, Spain, and Italy, where they are particularly favored.
Equipment Penetration: A Digital Revolution
The highest market penetration was observed in Dental Practice Management Software and Intraoral Cameras. This points to a broader digital transformation within dental practices. Manufacturers in the digital equipment domain can leverage this trend to introduce integrated solutions that simplify operations and enhance patient care.
The Rise of Digital Dentistry
Patient Data Management and Billing are the leading digital adopters in dental practices, signaling an overarching move towards digitization. Manufacturers should consider how their products integrate with digital workflows and whether they contribute to a seamless digital ecosystem within dental practices.
Future Outlook: Opportunities Amidst Challenges
Although the survey indicates a generally low confidence level among GP dentists, especially in France, there’s a silver lining. Confidence remains high in the maintenance and improvement of the quality of care. This suggests that products that demonstrate quality improvements or cost management potential are likely to resonate well with dentists.
Biomaterials: The Substance of Choice
Composite resins lead the biomaterials pack, followed by glass ionomers, ceramics, zirconia, and titanium. This diversity in material preference suggests a market ripe for innovative biomaterials that offer superior performance and patient outcomes.
Embracing Minimally Invasive Techniques
The push towards minimally invasive techniques is clear, with a majority of dentists frequently using such methods. Manufacturers must consider this when designing new products, focusing on less invasive, patient-friendly options.
In conclusion, Cetas Healthcare’s survey is more than just numbers—it’s a narrative of the current and future landscape of dental practice. For dental manufacturers, these insights provide strategic direction for product development, market focus, and innovation. By aligning with these trends, manufacturers can not only meet the needs of today’s dental professionals but also shape the future of dental care.