Indicators of Oral Health Service Systems: Comparing Iran With Oecd Member States; [هصخاشایماظنهئاراتامدختمالسناهدو:نادندقیبطتناریاابیاهروشکوضعنامزاسیراکمهوهعسوتیداصتقا] Publisher



Jaafaripooyan E ; Heydari M ; Piri ZA
Source: Payesh Published:2026

Abstract

Objective(s): Given the economic and social burden of oral diseases and the inadequate coverage of dental services in many countries, comparing oral health systems across different nations-particularly in member states of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)-is essential for identifying and implementing effective policies and programs. This study aims to examine and compare oral health systems in 35 OECD member countries and Iran. Methods: This comparative study analyzed key oral health indicators, including life expectancy, the DMFT index at age 12, the prevalence of untreated caries in permanent and primary teeth, per capita dental expenditures, the number of dentists per 10,000 people, and dental care financing methods. Data were collected and analyzed from reliable international sources and official reports from various countries for the period 2018 to 2024. Results: The DMFT index was highest in the United States (6.3) and lowest in Denmark (0.38), while this index was reported as 1.84 in Iran. The highest prevalence of untreated dental caries in permanent teeth was observed in Chile, and in primary teeth in Hungary; in Iran, these prevalences were reported as 33.6% and 46.7%, respectively. Per capita dental expenditure was highest in Switzerland and lowest in Turkey; it was estimated as 1.42 USD in Iran. The highest density of dentists per 10,000 population was observed in Sweden, whereas the lowest was reported in Turkey; this indicator was 4.27 per 10,000 population in Iran. In Iran, the financing of dental services is provided through public health insurance, private insurance, and supplementary insurance schemes. Conclusion: Reforming the dental care financing system and expanding insurance coverage play a crucial role in reducing inequalities and improving access to dental services. Moreover, focusing on preventive measures, increasing public awareness, and enhancing oral health infrastructure can be effective strategies for reducing treatment costs and improving public health. In the future, implementing sustainable policies and making strategic investments in oral health—while leveraging successful global experiences-can contribute to enhanced quality of life and better overall health outcomes. © 2026, Iranian Institute for Health Sciences Research. All rights reserved.