ADA says patients could spend more at the dentist due to pandemic

People could spend more money at the dentist because of the pandemic. The American Dental Association says many offices are thinking about adding fees to stay afloat. We spoke to a dentist who told us it all comes down to comfort levels and coronavirus cases in the area.

“I do think some people are afraid of going to the dentist,” Dustin Sundquist said.

Sundquist said he feels safe at the dentist, but he understands why not everyone does.

“They are inside your mouth,” Sundquist said.

The ADA says dental offices are still 20% below usual patient volume.

“Personally, I haven’t noticed a 20% decrease,” said Dr. Grady Scott with Bonita Beach Dental. “But, if I do compare this year to last year, there is a slight decrease.”

Scott says, although they have not seen a 20% decrease at their office, they could be busier.

“The pandemic making people more cautious of leaving the house,” Scott said.

The ADA shows 20% of the dental practices will consider closing down if patient volume does not increase. The ADA says, if patients don’t return to the dental offices, fees could rise.

Many understand why.

“There are some offices I am sure that are struggling and do need that,” Crystal White said. “So by all means, PPE equipment is very expensive, and it’s a lot of work.”

“I don’t think they should do it, but I can understand the economic downfall,” Sundquist said.

But Dr. Scott says he is not worried.

“Is dentistry going to have a giant raise in the fee? I don’t see it,” Scott said.