Dental care continues to undergo an unprecedented evolution, largely driven by the changing needs and preferences of today’s patients. From virtual dentistry to the move towards eco-friendly materials, dental practices are adapting to offer a more modern, comfortable, and accessible patient experience. These are some of the findings from Cigna Healthcare’s comprehensive research on the latest trends and innovations in the dental industry, which highlights how patients, providers, and program carriers are navigating this dynamic market.

Let’s take a look at some of the key expectations and behaviors of dental patients, which can help guide employers on benefit considerations that will support a more satisfying care experience for their employees.

A more modern, comfortable patient experience

According to the study, dental anxiety is a notable issue among patients, with 3 in 4 adults expressing fear or apprehension about dental visits. To address this, the industry is adapting not only the care being provided but also the environments where it’s offered. For example, virtual dentistry has become increasingly popular in the post-pandemic era, and has served as a vital stepping stone for patients who have not seen a dentist in years to return to regular in-person dental visits. For example, technology exists to allow patients to have a preliminary oral health assessment simply by taking and submitting photos of their teeth using a smartphone, which is followed up by a virtual appointment with a dentist.

Many in-person visits are no longer in the sterile, clinical dental offices of the past. The ambiance now mimics that of a calming retreat, complete with modern décor as well as Netflix and stereo headphones for patient entertainment during procedures. These changes create a more relaxed atmosphere, easing patients’ anxiety and leading to a more positive care experience.

This transformation goes beyond the physical environment. Dentists are embracing technological advancements to improve the patient experience further. The implementation of 3D printers, intraoral cameras, and digital x-rays is enhancing efficiency and precision in their practices to deliver more personalized treatment. This not only results in better care but also helps to bolster patient loyalty as well as attract more business, as up to 75% of a dentist’s business comes from referrals, according to the study.

New avenues for engagement

As the popularity of social media skyrockets, dental practices are leveraging these platforms for improved patient interaction. Providers are adopting platforms like TikTok and YouTube to connect with the younger Gen Z clientele, making dental care information more accessible and engaging for all. From sharing oral hygiene tips to demonstrating procedural updates, dentists are creating a real-time virtual bond with their audience.

As digitization permeates every aspect of our lives, patients want to book dental appointments with the same ease as booking a restaurant reservation or scheduling a salon visit. To meet these expectations, many dental practices have begun to offer online appointment setting, making access to dental care more convenient for patients.

A smile that doesn’t cost the Earth

More and more patients are turning to their dentists for cosmetic procedures not just to enhance their smiles but also to boost their confidence and improve their self-image, especially in an age of selfies and Instagram reels. Advanced technologies such as predictive AI tools are now enabling dentists to create the optimal smile for each patient.

Further, in today’s increasingly environmentally conscious society, customers demand eco-friendly dental care. Bio-compatible materials are becoming the preferred choice for implants and restorations. Such materials, which are environmentally friendly and safe for the body, align with the rising demand for sustainable products and services.

Considerations for employers

These findings indicate that employers should consider dental benefits that are leveraging modern technologies such as AI and virtual dentistry, which can enhance patient engagement, enable at-home oral screenings, and potentially lead to better oral health outcomes for employees. With a growing demand for eco-friendly dental products, employers might want to consider carriers that support sustainability in dental care. This could be particularly important for attracting and retaining younger employees who prioritize environmental responsibility.

The report also noted that more employees are opting for fully-insured dental plans over administrative services only (ASO) plans, with fully-insured program enrollment increasing by more than 50% over the last 10 years. This trend might be due to the comprehensive coverage and financial predictability these plans offer.

This article touches on only a few of the changes occurring in the increasingly evolving dental market. For more details on the latest trends for dental patients, as well as for care providers and program carriers, read the full report.

This content was created with the assistance of AI tools. It was reviewed, edited, and fact-checked by Cigna’s editorial team.