December 7th, 2009

Reports the Tribune-Review:

A report by the American Dental Association says the migration is taking its toll on thousands of dentists, who are wrestling with rising equipment and staffing costs while serving fewer patients.

As many as 80 percent of the nation’s 160,000 dentists say the recession forced them to put off buying equipment, delay retirement plans or lay off staff, according to results of a recent survey by the ADA’s Health Policy Resources Center. Revenue fell because patients are going elsewhere for cleanings, root canals and fillings or simply aren’t seeking treatment because they can’t afford it, researchers concluded.

The trend is playing out in Western Pennsylvania, where some dentists say they put off purchasing X-ray machines and froze staff wages to trim expenses.

“Everyone’s suffering in this economy. Dentists are no different,” said Robert Runzo, a retired dentist who is secretary of the Dental Society of Western Pennsylvania. “Most dentistry is elective. And people are electing to save money wherever they can, by not (making appointments).”

Find out more at the Tribune-Review.