Government-Funded Dental Care: A Boon for Productivity and Economic Growth

Lastly, covering dental care costs will have positive economic implications. Many individuals avoid seeking dental treatments due to the high costs involved, leading to a decrease in productivity and an increase in absenteeism (Lima and Buarque). By providing government coverage, individuals will be more likely to seek preventive care and address dental issues promptly. This will result in a healthier workforce, reduced healthcare costs in the long term, and increased productivity for the nation as a whole. Amy Righolt of Radboud University Medical Centre states 'the most recent analysis available, the global economic cost of dental diseases is $544 billion, with $357 billion accounted for by direct costs of treatment and $187 billion in productivity losses to the economy' (Righolt et al.). This highlights the significant economic burden that dental diseases impose on both individuals and the overall economy. In conclusion, covering dental care costs can lead to improved productivity, reduced healthcare expenses, and overall economic benefits for individuals and the nation as a whole. Investing in accessible dental care is a smart economic move with far-reaching benefits.