There are more than 205,000 dentists working in dentistry in the U.S., according to new data from the American Dental Association.
Since 2001, the number of dentists in the U.S. has increased by more than 41,000.
The ADA defined dentists working in dentistry as individuals whose primary occupation is one of the following: private practice (full- or part-time), dental school/faculty staff member, armed forces, other federal services (such as Veterans Affairs or Public Health Service), state or local government employee, hospital staff dentist, graduate student, intern, resident, or other health or dental organization staff member.
Here is the number of active dentists in the U.S. in each year since 2001:
2001: 163,376
2002: 165,657
2003: 167,524
2004: 169,756
2005: 171,575
2006: 172,629
2007: 176,116
2008: 178,384
2009: 181,370
2010: 183,192
2011: 186,083
2012: 188,866
2013: 191,376
2014: 192,263
2015: 195,755
2016: 196,465
2017: 198,513
2018: 199,482
2019: 200,417
2020: 201,115
2021: 201,923
2022: 202,535
2023: 202,303
2024: 202,400
2025: 205,088
At the Becker's 5th Annual Future of Dentistry Roundtable, taking place September 14-15 in Chicago, dental leaders and executives will gain insights into emerging technologies, practice growth strategies and the evolving landscape of dental care delivery, with a focus on innovation, patient experience and operational excellence. Apply for complimentary registration now.
