PUBLISHER: Knowledge Sourcing Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1378124
PUBLISHER: Knowledge Sourcing Intelligence | PRODUCT CODE: 1378124
Intra-oral flat panel sensors refer to a type of small-sized sensory-based X-ray imaging equipment that is used for high-resolution radiographic images of the mouth to assist dentists in helping their patients. These digital sensors improve the quality of dental imaging and improve the efficiency of dental radiography departments. The technology allows the detection and redressal of any oral health issues being faced by patients. The intra-oral flat panel sensor market can be classified in the following ways: by type, application, and geographic region. The major drivers for the growth of this market include advancements in medical imaging technologies and digital sensors.
A major factor driving the growth of the intra-oral flat panel sensor market size is the adoption of digital sensors and photostimulable phosphor systems in the markets. Digital sensors are being increasingly used in the healthcare sector, due to their upgraded features as compared to conventional radiography films. These sensors also allow for real-time fast relay of dental images from the equipment directly to connected computers or other devices. Another advantage of using intra-oral sensors is the low radiation exposure, which is beneficial for the patients in the long run. These factors will help to increase the intra-oral flat panel sensor industry value.
As per the latest census data available, it is seen that the age group of 0-14 comprises more than 30% of India's population. Additionally, the percentage of the population above 60 years of age is roughly around 6%. These are the two age categories where oral health is more focused upon and where the chances of dental diseases are higher. Therefore, as the population in these age demographics continues to grow, the market for oral health will also continue to grow due to a growing base of oral health patients, leading to an increase in the intra-oral flat panel sensor market size.
The growth of the intra-oral flat panel sensor industry relates to the initiatives being undertaken by national governments to increase access to oral healthcare for the public and the underprivileged classes of society. For example, the government of India has launched the National Oral Health Programme initiative intending to provide integrated, comprehensive oral health care in the existing oral healthcare facilities. The program's main objectives include reducing oral diseases and promoting oral health and oral health preventive services as part of the general healthcare system. These initiatives will help in growing the intra-oral flat panel sensor market.
A significant challenge faced by this industry relates to the high initial costs of purchasing dental imaging systems which acts as a hindrance to the growth of the industry as it negatively impacts the demand. There is a significant initial financial commitment required for the purchase of intra-oral flat panel sensory equipment which can be a deterrent to its demand as many manufacturers may not be willing to make such commitments. Further, the high costs also drive away the potential demand from smaller-scale dentistry units and individual professionals who may not be able to afford to make such large purchases, especially in the early stages.
Another additional barrier to the growth of the industry is the lack of reimbursements for dental procedures in many countries. In several countries, such as India, for example, most dental procedures are not covered by health insurance providers as these are cosmetic treatments rather than medical necessities. This acts as a deterrent to the growth of the oral health sector in these countries, hampering the growth of the intra-oral flat panel sensor market due to a reduced customer base.
Based on geographic region, the intra-oral flat panel sensor market is segmented into North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and Asia-Pacific.
The European region is expected to constitute a significant share of the intra-oral flat panel sensor industry and similar trends are expected to be followed in the forecast period. This market share is owed to the presence of several large dental imaging manufacturers and suppliers in the region such as Villa Sistemi. Another important factor is the cost-effective access to healthcare in most European Union nations which includes dental health reimbursements too. This is a major factor as it enables citizens in these regions to afford dental health procedures.
It is anticipated that North American and Asia-Pacific markets will experience moderate growth too. The intra-oral flat panel sensors market in the Asia-Pacific region is expected to grow steadily due to the presence of a large percentage of the world population in the region, as well as advancements in dental imaging technologies and oral health awareness initiatives in several countries such as India and China.