Abstract

The use of the services of a dentist or orthodontist for Canada as a whole was just under 60%. It was far lower than physician utilization in 1997. Use ranges from a low of 46% in Newfoundland and Labrador to highs of 63% in British Columbia and Ontario. The reason for low dental utilization is partially due to the fact that dental coverage is not universal across Canada. Having dental coverage not only increases likelihood of visiting a dentist/orthodontist, it also increases the likelihood of making two or more visits. In addition, dental services utilization patterns, for both individuals and regions, are influenced by factors like age, gender, and self-rated health status.