Pediatric dental demand shifts

Pediatric dental demand is shifting. Fewer families are bringing kids regularly. Those who do are trading up for better quality and more specialized care.

Volume is down 8-12% year over year in most regions. But high-quality pediatric practices and those with sedation capabilities are running full schedules. The divide is widening. Generic practices are losing pedo cases. Specialists are filling slots.

This creates opportunity or threat depending on your position. If you're a general practice with weak pedo, abandon it and refer out. You're wasting hygiene time on lower-margin cleanings. If you're a general practice with strong pedo and sedation capability, invest more. You're sitting on a competitive advantage.

The reason for the shift: parents are more selective. They want friendly environments. Many practices still run pedo like general dentistry (cold, clinical, slow). Good pedo practices run fast, friendly, visual. Kids see cartoons. Transitions are quick. Providers smile. Outcomes are clearly explained to parents.

Audit your pedo performance. What's your pedo production as a percentage of total revenue? Is it declining year over year? If so, fix it or refer it out. Pedo is all-or-nothing. Half-hearted pedo doesn't work and wastes resources.