The dental assistant workforce by the numbers

According to the American Dental Association’s “Dental Workforce Shortages” report, 57.5 percent of the dentists surveyed said the most challenging aspect of recruiting dental assistants was a lack of applicants or shortage.

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The report includes results from a survey conducted in June. The survey included responses from 4,255 dental assistants and 5,122 dental hygienists 18 or older.

Five statistics to know:

1. The majority of dental assistants currently employed have been in their respective positions for five years or fewer.

2. About one-third of the dental assistant workforce expects to retire in five years or fewer.

3. Within the past year, 49.2 percent of dental assistants said they received a raise.

4. Of the dental assistants who voluntarily left the field, 46 percent said it was due to insufficient pay.

5. Among currently employed dental assistants, 60 percent said they are satisfied with their roles.

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