Capitation in dentistry: a quasi-experimental evaluation.

Two matched samples of 245 patients were drawn from solo dental practices which contained both capitation and fee-for-service components. All services rendered to patients during their entire time under care of the practice were recorded and analyzed. Results indicate different styles of care under the two payment mechanisms. An improved preventive style was associated with capitation, as well as fewer fillings. Outcome measured by a modification of the DMF (decayed-missing-filled) Index was also more favorable under capitation.