The year 2024 will be remembered for its transformative milestones in dentistry, from groundbreaking technologies to significant policy shifts and innovations in dental medicine. Here is a concise recap of the top eight events that shaped the dental world this year:
1- First robotic dental procedure
In July, U.S.-based company Perceptive announced the first fully automated dental procedure performed on a human using a robotic arm. “This medical breakthrough enhances the precision and efficiency of dental procedures, democratizing access to better dental care,” said Perceptive’s Canadian CEO, Dr. Chris Ciriello. His journey began with a desire to address the shortage of dentists in rural areas in Canada, leading to this innovative solution.
2- North America’s first dental MRI
On September 18, the University of Minnesota installed the first dental MRI in the United States, coinciding with the opening of its Orofacial MRI Center. This technology enables imaging of densely calcified tissues like teeth and bone, promising advancements in diagnostics and targeted treatment for dental issues.
3- Cloud-native oral scanner debuts
Dentsply Sirona introduced Primescan 2, the world’s first cloud-native intraoral scanner. Launched in September, this portable device connects directly to the cloud, revolutionizing workflows and accessibility. Non-profit organizations like Smile Train can leverage this technology to provide care to underserved communities, bypassing logistical challenges.
4- Record immigration of dentists to Canada
In our exclusive story, Canada welcomed 740 immigrant dentists by July, marking a 60% increase from 2023 and the highest in five years. Ontario alone received 120 dentists this year compared to just five in 2021. This influx helps address a projected shortage of 13,500 dental job openings between 2022 and 2031. Meanwhile, dental hygienists remain excluded from Canada’s healthcare immigration category due to differing labour projections.
5- Canadian dental market job boom
Canada’s dental sector saw a significant economic recovery, surpassing pre-pandemic productivity levels by $851 million. Employment in dental offices increased by 24% in 2021, with steady growth continuing through 2024. With nearly 13,500 job openings projected over the next decade, the industry’s expansion reflects both economic resilience and growing demand for dental services. However, this boom coincides with rising healthcare costs, as the Canadian Institute for Health Information projects health spending to reach $372 billion in 2024—about $9,054 per Canadian, a new record high.
Meanwhile, the new federal Canadian Dental Care Plan has so far helped more than 1.2 million people receive care as of December, addressing the long-standing issue of nearly one-third of Canadians lacking dental insurance.
The expanded coverage has also reduced some waiting lists in provincially funded dental programs.
6- Dental staffing challenges and innovations
Staffing shortages remained a challenge in 2024, prompting innovations in recruitment. Toothio, a digital staffing platform, raised $5 million to connect dental offices with hygienists and assistants across the U.S. In Canada, agencies expanded their reach by integrating internationally educated nurses and dental staff into healthcare roles. Meanwhile, controversies arose in the U.S. as the American Dental Association passed resolutions allowing unlicensed practitioners and foreign-trained dentists to perform dental hygiene services, sparking debates among professionals.
7- Progress in tooth regrowth research
Exciting strides were made in dental medicine this year, particularly in tooth regrowth. The University of Manitoba opened a $2.5-million research facility to explore regenerative techniques inspired by tropical fish. Meanwhile, Japanese scientists began clinical trials for a drug that could stimulate the growth of a third set of teeth in humans, offering hope to those with missing teeth. “This is a completely new technology,” said researcher Dr. Katsu Takahashi, highlighting its potential to restore natural teeth.
8- Healthcare consolidation reshapes the industry
Healthcare consolidation has been a defining trend in 2024, significantly impacting the dental industry. The US$4.1 billion acquisition announcement of dental supplier Patterson Companies by health investor Patient Square Capital underscores the growing influence of private equity in healthcare. This wave of consolidation raises questions about the future of independent practices as larger players dominate the market.
According to Becker’s Dental, the dental industry in the United States has witnessed nearly 200 Dental Support Organization (DSO) transactions this year, with significant activity in states such as California, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and New Jersey. The U.S. dental implant market, valued at over US$5 billion, has been growing at an annual rate of 6%, making it increasingly attractive to investors.
