The Ontario Dental association (ODA) has changed its approach to Suggested Fee Guide revisions. Changes adopted by the ODA's General Council in June 2000 will be phased in over a three-to five-year period beginning with the 2002 Fee Guide. The ODA views the Fee Guide as critical to maintaining good working relations with the insurance industry.

Past calculations focused primarily on costs associated with providing specific services and running a practice. The new approach includes the past calculations but also considers factors that affect demand for services, such as the patient's perception of the services. Future Fee Guides will also adjust fees for individual services, replacing the current model that employs a single adjustment to all suggested fees. In addition, recall packaging codes will be eliminated, a move likely to increase plan sponsor costs. These changes incorporate 30 years of ODA Fee Guide history. Evolving research capabilities let the ODA adjust suggested fees with more accuracy, targeting specific services. The three-to five-year phase-in period is intended to allow practitioners and benefit providers sufficient time to adjust to the new guidelines. It has been suggested that these changes could result in an increase of 30% to current dental rates