Hourly earnings for dental office staff have increased by 23% since 2021, according to the American Dental Association’s “State of the U.S. Dental Economy” report for the second quarter of 2026.
The ADA recently released its “State of the U.S. economy” report for the second quarter of 2026. The report includes economic data for dental practices as well as information on consumer dental spending, staffing and various industry challenges.
The report highlights the increase in various practice expenses compared to the rate of inflation.
The cost of dental equipment and supplies increased by 23% since January 2021, while hourly earnings for dental office staff also increased by 23%. Overall inflation during this period has been 27%.
Source: Dental staffing wages up 23% since 2021: ADA / Becker’s Dental