A costs analysis of dental treatment for ectodermal dysplasia.

OVERVIEW: Dental treatment modalities for ectodermal dysplasia (ED) vary markedly depending on the clinical manifestations, but to date there have been no studies exploring the potential economic impact of ED. On the basis of anecdotal and clinical reports, the authors postulate that costs of dental treatment for this condition can have a substantial financial impact on patients and their families.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the authors' pilot study was to develop an economic model for various treatment modalities for ED with severe hypodontia.

METHODS

The authors first used a comprehensive review of the literature and expert consensus to establish a treatment modalities model for ED. Next, they completed chart reviews to validate the model with sample treatment and costs information. Using these data, they then constructed a model of treatment options and associated costs.

RESULTS

The sample included 24 patients with ED who had severe hypodontia. Forty-two percent were female; patients' ages ranged from 4 years, 11 months to 31 years, 1 month. Forty-two percent had dental insurance coverage, while more than one-half paid for services out of pocket. An estimated 84 percent had undergone prosthodontic treatment, 37 percent orthodontic treatment and 19 percent implant surgery. Depending on the age of the patient and types of dental treatment, there was a broad variation in costs. This ranged from $2,038 to $3,298 for those who had received prosthodontic treatment only; it ranged from $12,632 to $41,146 for those who had received a combination of prosthodontic, orthodontic and implant treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Dental treatment for ED had a marked financial impact on patients and their families and varied depending on the type and duration of treatment.