Dentist Only for the Wealthy? Parties Seek Change Across Political Divides
An increasing number of Norway's residents are forgoing dental visits due to financial reasons. The latest data shows a rise in the number of people who cannot afford treatment.
The situation in dentistry requires immediate action.
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The 2025 Living Conditions Survey, prepared by Statistics Norway (SSB), points to a deepening problem with access to dental services. 7.7 percent of respondents, or about 355,000 people, report being unable to afford a dentist visit. The previous year, it was 7.1 percent. Increasingly, people are also reporting difficulties covering the costs of treatment.
Rising Costs of Dental Care in Norway
More and more people consider dental expenses to be a serious burden. In the latest survey, over 18 percent of respondents indicated that it is a problem. This corresponds to 833,000 residents. In 2022, it was 15.3 percent. The increase amounts to 157,000 people over three years.
Those with lower incomes feel the impact the most. In this group, the number of people forgoing treatment is rapidly increasing. In many cases, appointments are postponed or skipped. The data points to economic disparities in access to dental services. This phenomenon is being observed more and more often.
Those with lower incomes feel the impact the most. In this group, the number of people forgoing treatment is rapidly increasing. In many cases, appointments are postponed or skipped. The data points to economic disparities in access to dental services. This phenomenon is being observed more and more often.
It has been noted that patients pay differently for dental care than for other medical services.Photo: pixnio.com / CC0 Creative Commons
Inequalities in Norway. Who Can't Afford a Dentist?
Among those receiving social assistance, 29 percent report being unable to afford a dentist. The previous year, it was 17 percent. People receiving disability benefits and those earning less than NOK 46,000 per month also report difficulties. Changes are most visible in these groups.
The public debate increasingly highlights inequalities in the system. Attention is drawn to the differences between doctor visits and dental treatment. For doctor visits, the 'frikort' system applies—a yearly cap on treatment costs that limits expenses. At the dentist, patients pay costs directly. It is pointed out that some people live with pain or damaged teeth due to lack of funds.
The public debate increasingly highlights inequalities in the system. Attention is drawn to the differences between doctor visits and dental treatment. For doctor visits, the 'frikort' system applies—a yearly cap on treatment costs that limits expenses. At the dentist, patients pay costs directly. It is pointed out that some people live with pain or damaged teeth due to lack of funds.
At the end of the year, five parties agreed on the first steps toward reforming the system. The government is to prepare a proposal to align dental care with other health services. Plans include submitting solutions for consultation and considering a co-payment system and cost limits. Implementation is being considered for 2027.
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