Tooth decay is the most prevalent chronic condition affecting children in the United States. Nationally, 1 in 5 children (20%) aged 5 to 11 years, and approximately 1 in 7 adolescents (14%) aged 12 to 19 years, have at least one untreated decayed tooth. Statewide surveillance data indicates that approximately 23.4% of Florida third grade children have untreated tooth decay. Painful and costly consequences of untreated dental caries include infection, pain, impaired nutrition, emergency department visits, and missed school days. The placement of dental sealants has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing decay in children. The purpose of this analysis is to calculate the long-term cost-savings associated with receiving dental sealants versus no preventive treatment for children receiving dental sealants at the Florida Department of Health’s County Health Departments (CHDs).
METHODS:
The Florida Department of Health’s Public Health Dental Program provides preventive dental screening and services statewide through CHDs and school-based sealant programs. Data on the number of children receiving at least one dental sealant at these locations during 2014 was analyzed for cost benefit, by comparing the cost of receiving one sealant to the cost of treatment for decay (one tooth filling) on an unsealed tooth. First, the cost of not providing a dental sealant was calculated; this includes treating the children who present with untreated decay with one filling. Secondly, the cost of providing one dental sealant to the whole population was calculated; the possibility of that sealant failing and thus the child becoming at risk for decay and subsequently treated with a filling was also included. Costs for the treated (dental sealants) and untreated populations was estimated across three years to coincide with current Florida Medicaid periodicity for dental sealant reimbursement. Cost data was taken from the American Dental Association. Total cost for the treated child population was then subtracted from the total cost for the untreated child population to yield a cost-savings statement. A return on investment calculation was then performed.
RESULTS:
A total of 36,955 children aged 0-20 years received at least one dental sealant through CHDs and school-based sealant programs during 2014. Over the projected three year period, a total of $2,388,355.22 was saved by providing dental sealants to this child population. The return on investment was 88%; for every $1 invested in dental sealants, $1.88 is saved in treatment.
CONCLUSIONS:
Dental sealants are a cost saving preventive dental service for Florida children.