Here are five statistics Becker’s has reported on in recent months that could lead to future roadblocks in the dental industry:
1. The U.S. currently has 7,980 dental professional shortage areas, according to new data from the Health Resources and Services Administration.
2. The reimbursement rate index has increased by 19% since January 2021, while inflation was 27% over the same time period, according to the American Dental Association’s “State of the U.S. Dental Economy” report for the second quarter of 2026.
3. The largest data breaches in dentistry from the last three years have affected more than 25 million patients.
4. Dental was among several sectors with aged inventories among private equity-backed companies, with at least 20 companies with holding times of at least seven years, according to Pitchbook’s second quarter “Healthcare Services Report.”
5. Hourly earnings for dental office staff have increased by 23% since 2021, according to the American Dental Association.
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.
