In an exclusive interview on Macedonia’s morning show, Dr. Marijan Denkovski, the president of the Dental Chamber of Macedonia, addressed several critical topics affecting the dental sector in the country. Among the issues discussed were the rising costs of dental services, unfair competition, the price disparity between public and private dental practices, and concerns regarding the import of illegal dental materials.
Rising Costs and Minimum Price Lists
Dr. Denkovski acknowledged that dental services at private practices have become more expensive. However, he clarified that a new price list has been established, setting minimum charges for services, ensuring that no dentist can charge less than the prescribed amounts. This regulation is meant to standardize pricing and prevent unfair competition.
He explained that public health institutions are not bound by these minimum prices, but primary care dentists providing services outside the scope of their Health Fund contract, particularly prosthetic services, must adhere to these standards. Prosthetics, including fixed prosthetics, bridges, dentures, and jaws, are not covered by the Health Fund, and therefore must be privately charged. Additionally, white fillings for molars, which differ from the Fund’s prescribed fillings, also fall outside the Fund’s coverage and are charged privately.
The price list stipulates that extracting a baby tooth costs 300 denars, while extracting a permanent tooth costs 1,000 denars. For permanent dentures, the minimum charge is 15,000 denars, and for visible skeletal prostheses, it is 18,000 denars. Zirconium crowns are priced starting at 30,000 denars. These prices, while indicative, can be higher depending on the dentist and the complexity of the procedure, but cannot fall below the set minimums. Violators can face fines.
Illegal Imports of Dental Materials
One of the most concerning topics raised during the interview was the issue of illegally imported dental materials, which has become increasingly prevalent in the country. Dr. Denkovski explained that some advertisements on social media feature significantly lower prices, which may be the result of illegal imports. While these materials may not necessarily be of poor quality, they have not gone through proper customs procedures, which significantly lowers their cost. He emphasized that while the materials could be of acceptable quality, the legality of the import is in question, and the source is often unreliable, which can result in substandard materials being used in dental treatments.
Enforcement and Regulation
The Dental Chamber is actively addressing these concerns and has already initiated proceedings against approximately ten dentists for advertising services at prices below the legal minimum. Dr. Denkovski emphasized that their efforts are focused on maintaining high standards of dental care. “We aim to ensure better quality dentistry. No medical service can be provided at the extremely low prices that some advertise,” he said.
He also touched on the issue of license renewals, explaining that any dentist who has failed to renew their license is not legally allowed to practice until it is updated. Additionally, the Health Fund is responsible for ensuring that it only contracts licensed practitioners, ensuring that unlicensed individuals do not operate in the public sector.
Foreign Dentists and Botox Injections
Dr. Denkovski also addressed concerns about foreign dentists working without proper licenses. The Dental Chamber does not have the authority to issue temporary licenses to foreign nationals, meaning that only licensed professionals can practice in Macedonia.
Additionally, he clarified that Botox injections offered at dental offices should only be administered by oral surgeons, as stipulated by law.
Campaign for Prevention and Public Awareness
Looking forward, Dr. Denkovski announced a new campaign aimed at increasing public awareness about the importance of dental prevention, entitled “Happy Mouth – Happy Mind.” The initiative will target both children and adults, stressing that prevention is the most cost-effective approach to dental health. He pointed out that while regular dental check-ups are free of charge, neglecting oral health can lead to much higher costs in the future, particularly for prosthetics, which are often prohibitively expensive. He emphasized that early intervention, even something as simple as a check-up, could save citizens from more costly and complex procedures down the line.
In conclusion, Dr. Denkovski called for a focus on prevention as a fundamental approach to dental care, noting that a healthy mouth contributes to overall health, and the benefits of addressing minor dental issues early are far-reaching.
Through this conversation, the Dental Chamber continues its efforts to tackle the challenges faced by dentists in Macedonia, striving for better regulation, higher standards, and greater public awareness about the importance of dental care.
Related topics:
Modern Diets Altering Children’s Jaw Shapes, Raising Concerns Over Dental and Breathing Issues
Dentist Reveals Which Popular Drinks Cause the Most Tooth Staining
Shoppers Rave About Dr. Dent’s Teeth Whitening Strips – Only 95p per Treatment!
