Trends in dental service provision in Australia: 1983-1984 to 2009-2010

Abstract

Objective To investigate time trends in dental service provision. Methods A random sample of Australian dentists was surveyed by mailed questionnaires in 1983-1984, 1993-1994, 2003-2004, and 2009-2010 (response rates 67-76%). The service rate per visit was collected from a log of services. Results The rate of service provision per visit [rate ratio (RR)] increased from 1983-1984 to 2009-2010 for the service areas of diagnostic (RR = 1.8; 1.6-1.9), preventive (RR = 1.9; 1.6-2.1), endodontic (RR = 2.1; 1.7-2.6), and crown and bridge (RR = 2.9; 2.3-3.8), whereas prosthodontic services decreased (RR = 0.7; 0.6-0.9). Conclusions The profile of services provided by dentists changed over the study period to include less emphasis on replacement of teeth and more on diagnosis, prevention, and retention of natural dentitions.