Citing the first-ever dental implant market decline due to the global economic crisis, Nobel Biocare reported net sales of 156 million euros ($214 million U.S.) for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010 (end-December 31), down 4.5% compared to the same quarter a year ago.
Net profit for the quarter fell 33% to 26 million euros ($36 million) from 39 million euros ($54 million) in the fourth quarter last year.
Revenues for the full year were 581.4 million euros ($798 million U.S.), down from 619.2 million euros ($850 million) in the previous fiscal year.
"2009 was marked by the far-reaching effects of the global economic crisis, which led, for the first time, to a dental implant market decline," said CEO Domenico Scala in a press release. "The company is well poised to take advantage of a recovery, early signs of which are emerging in a number of the world's economies."
The dental implant market declined by approximately 7% in 2009, although most markets stabilized toward the end of 2009 and "early signs of a recovery are emerging," the company noted. "We believe it is possible that the dental implant market may return to growth in 2010."
In related news, Nobel Biocare announced that it signed a preferred partnership agreement with Vita Zahnfabrik, a provider of restorative and prosthetic materials for dentists and dental technicians.
The collaboration with Vita will enable Nobel Biocare to offer superior end-to-end prosthetic products by combining its competencies in CAD/CAM dentistry with Vita's dental ceramics and expertise in artificial teeth, as well as veneering and framework materials. The partnership will also involve the development of new materials, joint educational and training programs, and commercial activities.
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