According to data from the Federal Center for Health Care Expertise, half of the population of Belgium does not visit the dentist enough. Alice Mayence, medical referent of Doctors of the World, believes that this is mainly due to financial reasons. Mayence mentions that the cost of visiting the dentist is too expensive and therefore many patients decide to forgo it as a result. She believes that the reason for this high cost is that of non-contracted dentists in Belgium, who can set their own prices, resulting in the patient having to pay too much. Mayence suggests that INAMI should provide better reimbursement for dental care to solve this issue.
Mayence also explains that these oral problems can lead to potential health issues in patients. For instance, conditions like painful chewing, a decayed tooth or missing teeth can complicate eating and lead to malnutrition. Additionally, Mayence suggests that depression can also be a consequence of these issues, as patients can often have an altered self-image, loss of self-esteem, and difficulties socializing.
According to figures from the Federal Center for Health Care Expertise, 50% of Belgians do not go to the dentist enough. For Alice Mayence, medical referent of Doctors of the World, the reason is essentially financial. She tells us regarding it in the RTL info 13H.
“It’s because of the cost it represents.” For Alice Mayence, medical referent of Doctors of the World, there is no doubt that going to the dentist is too expensive. This is why many patients decide to skip it. She mentions two reasons: “In Belgium, 40% of dentists are non-contracted and can therefore apply the price they want and the share that the patient must pay is still far too high.” The solution, for the referent, is simple: “There should be better reimbursement of dental care from INAMI.“
According to her, oral problems can also have an impact on the overall health of patients. For example: “When you have a decayed tooth, painful chewing or missing teeth, eating becomes complicated and you can face the risk of malnutrition.“She also explains that depression, in some cases, can be a consequence of these problems:”We have an altered self-image, loss of self-esteem, difficulties in socializing.”
In conclusion, the cost of dental care in Belgium remains a significant obstacle for many patients. As highlighted by Alice Mayence, medical referent of Doctors of the World, this is a cause for concern as oral health problems can have a broader impact on a patient’s well-being. From malnutrition risks to self-esteem issues, the consequences of neglecting dental care can be far-reaching. Therefore, it is essential that Belgium’s health authorities explore ways to improve reimbursement of dental care to ensure higher standards of oral health for all.
