Costly Smile: Floridians Pay More for Their Dental Health
A new study has revealed that Florida residents spend a significant portion of their personal expenses on dental care, placing the Sunshine State among the highest spenders on oral health in the nation.
According to an analysis using 2023 data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), Floridians allocate 3.56% of their total yearly spending to dental care — the equivalent of one dollar out of every $29 spent. This figure is 11% higher than the national average, ranking Florida 16th in the country for the largest share of personal expenditure on dental health.
On average, Florida residents spend $511 per year on dental services. While overall healthcare spending per capita is lower than in many other states, the proportion dedicated to oral health remains notably high. By comparison, neighboring Georgia spends 3.41% of household budgets on dentistry, while the national average stands at 3.2%.
The research also shows that northwestern and rural states bear the highest percentage of spending on dental care, largely due to lower per-capita income and limited access to health services. In these regions, even modest dental bills represent a greater share of a household’s yearly expenses.
Dr. Max Dawabsheh of Thorncrest Dental explained the findings:
“While you should never compromise on quality dental care, it’s crucial to do your research before spending large amounts of money. Reading online reviews and taking advantage of free consultations can help ensure your investment is worthwhile and that you’re satisfied with the outcome.”
The findings highlight that, despite Florida’s strong economy and wide range of medical services, maintaining a healthy smile can be an expensive commitment for many families.
