From 2006-2017 the number of dental laboratories in the United States is predicted to decline by 39%, according to market research compiled for the National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL). The research was complied by Valmont Research and includes data from the US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
“US dental laboratories that adhere to dental laboratory standards not only protect the health of the patient, but they also protect the dentist,” says Gary Iocco, co-chair of the NADL Public Awareness Committee, in a release. “With the reduction of labs, it is important now more than ever that dentists make sure that the dental restorations they use meet minimum dental laboratory standards.”
NADL promotes safe dental restoration practices through its “What’s in Your Mouth?” campaign, designed to give patients, dentists, and the dental laboratory community the information necessary to make informed decisions about their dental needs.
professional greed on dentistry’s part / poor pay & education on the technical support (lab) side coupled with ignorance & apathy on the public’s part will (is) netting the public a professional that offers a low grade oral health care system .