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Dentistry for children: personnel needs in the future
1Department of Dental Health, School of Dental Medicine, State University of New York at Stony Brook.
Current Opinion in Dentistry
|October 1, 1991
Summary
Factors like more children needing care, increased demand, and a shortage of dentists indicate a positive outlook for pediatric dental services. Better control over pediatric dentist numbers also supports this trend.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Public Health
- Healthcare Access
Background:
- Dental disease patterns are evolving.
- Pediatric dental care faces unique challenges and opportunities.
- Healthcare needs for children, especially those with special needs, are increasing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze factors influencing the future of pediatric dental care.
- To identify trends impacting dental service provision for children.
- To assess the balance between demand and supply in pediatric dentistry.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of demographic trends in pediatric populations.
- Review of service demand indicators in dental care.
- Assessment of dental practitioner production and specialization.
- Examination of regulatory and training controls for pediatric dentists.
Main Results:
- Growing numbers of children, including those with special healthcare needs, are increasing demand.
- A broader patient base seeks dental services.
- Persistent gaps in dental care access remain for certain populations.
- A decline in overall dental practitioner output is observed.
- Improved management of pediatric dentist numbers is noted.
Conclusions:
- Despite evolving dental disease patterns, several factors suggest a positive future for pediatric dental care.
- Increased demand and specific demographic shifts support the need for enhanced pediatric dental services.
- Addressing workforce dynamics and access disparities is crucial for optimizing future dental care delivery to children.