THE EVOLUTION OF DENTAL SERVICES IN THE KINGDOM: CRITICAL CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITIES

Abstract

Saudi Arabia's dental care system has undergone significant transformation in recent decades, paralleling the broader development of the nation's healthcare infrastructure. This comprehensive review examines the evolution of dental services in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), highlighting critical challenges and strategic opportunities for advancement. Drawing on extensive literature, this article analyzes the current state of dental services, identifies existing barriers to care, and explores promising avenues for improvement. Key challenges include regional disparities in service accessibility, workforce limitations, and inadequate oral health literacy. Significant opportunities exist in digital health transformation, expanded preventive programs, specialized care enhancement, and integration with the Vision 2030 health sector reforms. This analysis offers insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers seeking to contribute to the continued advancement of dental services in Saudi Arabia, ultimately improving population oral health outcomes and aligning with national healthcare goals.