There were fewer younger dentists who owned dental practices in 2021 compared to 2005, according to data from the American Dental Association's Health Policy Institute.
Dental practice ownership among all age groups has declined since 2005. The percentage of dentists who own their practices fell to 73 percent in 2021 from 84.7 percent in 2005.
Dental practice ownership by age in 2005 and 2021:
Under 30
2005: 25.4 percent
2021: 9.5 percent
Age 30-34
2005: 55 percent
2021: 34.2 percent
Age 35-44
2005: 85.9 percent
2021: 73 percent
Age 45-54
2005: 93.9 percent
2021: 88.6 percent
Age 55-64
2005: 93.4 percent
2021: 90.1 percent
Age 65 and over
2005: 85 percent
2021: 84.4 percent