Sarasota, FL (WorkersCompensation.com) — The numbers paint a clear picture: the dental industry is grappling with an unprecedented staffing deficit. The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that staffing shortages have reduced dental practice capacity by 10 percent. That means that most practices could see more patients if they had more staff. And the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) reports the country will need at least 10,802 more dentists by 2025.
Ward Blackwell, executive director of the Pennsylvania Dental Association, described the situation as a “perfect storm.’’
During the early months of the pandemic, many dental practices could not operate, and some older dentists decided to retire early. Some older hygienists and assistants retired, too, and other left the field, according to Blackwell.
“There was an acceleration of retirements, and hygienists and assistants kind of tended to change careers or retire,’’ said Blackwell. “From 2019 to 2022, there was a lot of mobility at that time, and Pennsylvania had a net loss of dentists – more left our state than came in.’’ said Blackwell.
Inflation and pandemic supply chain issues hit the industry, increasing overhead costs, according to Blackwell.
“Everything you can imagine put economic pressure on the industry,’’ said Blackwell. “Your typical practice had their expenses go up, but not really their income level, yet they’re under pressure to pay more to try and recruit staff,’’ said Blackwell.