Balancing dental service requirements and supplies: the economic evidence.

A conceptual model of the market for dental services is described. The model is based on principles of demand and production theory and the applications of those principles to the dental industry. The model highlights the significance of relevant economic indicators which are discussed to create an awareness of and, when possible, explain the challenges awaiting dentistry in the decades to come. It is concluded that, while dental service expenditures per dentist are likely to increase, larger portions of the population may not be able to afford dental care if prices of dental services continue to increase faster than individual budgets.