Abstract
Objective: This cross-sectional survey provides a snapshot of the New Zealand dental technology industry and identifies the range and cost of dental laboratory services.
Background: Developing an understanding on the commercial dental laboratories environment can provide insight into the entire dental industry and help identify factors that influence the industry.
Method: Two main questionnaires were used targeting dental laboratory owners and dental technician employees. The dental laboratory owners’ questionnaire had six sections (demographics, workforce information, services provided, revenue, and personal opinion). The dental technician employees’ survey consisted of three sections covering: demographics, workforce information and personal opinion. A web-based survey was the primary method for data collection. Categorical variables were tested for significance using SPSS statistical software (Version 19.0; SPSS Inc., Chicago, USA) with an alpha level of 0.05.
Results: Twenty six (41.3%) of responding dental laboratories use services from other New Zealand dental laboratories, 14 (22.2%) were using offshore laboratories. In 2010, over half of responding dental laboratories (19; 55.9%) made more than $250,000 annually. Clinical dental technicians are earning the highest hourly rate and removable prostheses were the most common dental laboratory services in New Zealand. The main reason provided for attrition of dental clients was due to them leaving the country, retirement or death.
Conclusion: There are multiple factors influencing the dental technology industry. Clinical dental technology appears to be prospering and while facing difficulties, the dental technology industry is adapting and still viable.