[Systems for financing and delivery of dental care]

This paper gives a survey of the most common systems for financing delivery of dental services in the USA and Europe. Emphasis is placed on the systems prevailing in the Scandinavian countries. The background and development of the Norwegian dental health policy are discussed, and the current programs and plans are reviewed. The need for and attitudes towards the introduction of new programs are appraised. It is concluded that new dental health programs directed towards disadvantaged individuals, adolescents and small children should be developed in Norway. The "mixed" system, i.e. public dental services together with dental health insurance, seemingly have certain advantages.