As the dental industry grapples with ongoing shortages, the demand across several specialties is expected to grow, including general dentists, oral surgeons, endodontists and orthodontists. The HRSA projected in its “Oral Health Workforce Projections, 2017– 2030” report that 206,850 dentists will be needed by 2030.
Workforce shortages have plagued several medical specialties in recent years as well, with the overall physician shortage expected to reach 121,300 by 2030, according to financial planning company Physicians Thrive’s “2022 Physician Compensation Report.” The report also listed projected physician shortages for 10 specialties through 2025:
Cardiology: 7,080
Ophthalmology: 6,180
Orthopedic surgery: 5,050
Urology: 3,630
General surgery: 2,970
Cardiothoracic surgery: 1,800
Gastroenterology: 1,630
Hematology/Oncology: 1,400
Pulmonology: 1,400
Neurosurgery: 1,200
However, the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute projected in a 2021 research brief a surplus of dentists by 2040, with the number of dentists per 100,000 population increasing from 60.7 in 2020 to 67.0 in 2040.
At the Becker's 5th Annual Future of Dentistry Roundtable, taking place November 12–14 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.
