Consumer dental spending has risen by 9% since 2020, while overall healthcare spending has increased by 22%, according to data from the American Dental Association.
The ADA released its “Economic Outlook and Emerging Issues in Dentistry” report for the fourth quarter of 2025, highlighting key trends and statistics on the workforce, practice operations and financial performance.
The ADA referenced the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, which shows that dental care spending was up 0.4% in September from the month prior and up 3% overall in 2025. Dental care spending was also up 4% from 12 months prior and up 9% from pre-pandemic levels.
However, the ADA noted that dental care spending lags behind spending for physician services and overall healthcare when compared to spending levels in 2020. Physician service spending has increased 24% since 2020, while overall healthcare spending is up by 22%.
