During the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of dental visits fell significantly, with a reduction of 80% in the public network and 30% in the private network, according to a study conducted by Federal University of Pelotas. However, in recent years, it has emerged that the area of dentistry has undergone a period of appreciation, being one of the targets of attention and interest in health in Brazil and in the world.
As for some market numbers, Fortune Business Insights indicates that, globally, the size of the dentistry market was valued at US$ 36.08 billion in 2022. In addition, it is estimated that it is expected to grow from US$ 38.21 billion in 2023 to US$ 65.23 billion in 2030.
In relation to Brazil, Federal Council of Dentistry (CFO) estimated that dental services, taking into account all types of clinics, have a turnover of around R$ 39 billion a year, stressing that there is still a lot of room for growth. Here we will highlight two points that have attracted attention in dentistry in recent years, namely the advancement of technology in the sector, dental education, recent research, and the aesthetic market.
Technological progress and the pressure for up-to-date education
Just as medicine undergoes a digitalization process on several fronts, dentistry has also accompanied these movements, leading to an improvement in diagnoses and treatments, both from the point of view of efficacy and of less invasive methods. Among these technologies, there is a highlight of the software that simulates the results of aesthetic procedures and assists in the planning of surgeries, in addition to dental braces and 3D printers for molds and dentures.
Still, today an important part of evolution revolves around interaction with 4D files and the so-called “digital patient”, as published in the scientific journal “CES Dentistry” in 2021. The researchers indicate that 4D files allow the capture of specific patient movements, providing greater diagnostic accuracy and predictability about the results of treatment plans. In addition, they point out that this method brings the patient to the center of care, being able to show him all the simulations of the evolution of the picture in a graphic and practical way.
As a result of these advances, similar to medical education, there is also pressure to update dentistry grades. There are already specialization and master's courses that seek to respond to this demand, but some universities are moving to update the curriculum with the Digital Dentistry chair.
In addition, this year, for example, the School of Dentistry of USP inaugurated the Learning, Research and Innovation Resource Center, a space aimed at developing specific skills in undergraduate and graduate dentistry. This space contains dental simulators, electronic devices, and a space for 3D modeling and printing, among other elements. It is worth noting that Brazil is a reference in teaching and research in dentistry. In March of this year, the QS World University Ranking by Subject evaluated the dentistry course at USP as the 14th best in the world.
The potential of cannabinoids in dentistry
From the research point of view, in addition to technological innovations, studies on the potential of medical cannabis in dentistry, since cannabis influences the endocannabinoid system, essential for maintaining health in the body as a whole, including the oral cavity. A Cannabis & Health indicates that the medicinal use of cannabis is seen as promising in the treatment of inflammatory conditions.
Also, in line with these recent studies, the São Paulo Regional Council of Dentistry (CROSP) created a Working Group to expand studies on the use of cannabinoids. The Group seeks to collaborate with the dissemination of information about cannabis in dentistry, with guidance on this use, in addition to contributing to regulation and education. So far, studies involving the use of cannabinoids related to chronic pain, bruxism, anti-inflammatory and healing agents stand out.
Today, the prescription of medical cannabis is authorized for both doctors and dental surgeons. However, the need for this use must be proven in order for the patient to import or purchase pharmaceuticals at retail, as regulated by the ANS.
Aesthetic dentistry market grows in Brazil and around the world
The beauty market is one of the most promising today, and Brazil is among the countries where this segment grows the most, along with the United States and China. In the midst of this growth, dental aesthetics is one of the trends. The Brazilian Society of Aesthetic Dentistry (SBOE) indicates that in 2021 the Brazilian aesthetic market presented a growth greater than 560%.
Among the aesthetic procedures, Dental Tribune highlights the demand for contact lenses, teeth whitening and ceramic veneers. However, the scope of the dentist's work goes beyond dental aesthetics and he acts on the face as a whole, with the application of botox and lip filling, harmonization and other interventions on the face, procedures regulated by the Federal Council of Dentistry. It should be noted that aesthetics is a very cultural aspect that resonates a lot in the United States and Latin America, which drives the growth of this market.
Globally, a report from Research and Markets emphasizes that North America led this aesthetic dentistry market in 2021 and projects significant growth in the Asia-Pacific region due to its enormous population base and disposable income. The report also highlights that this is a very competitive sector due to the presence of large Players. Finally, at the global level, it indicates that this market had revenues of US$ 33.6 billion in 2022 and estimates revenues of US$ 89 billion by 2030.
