Why dental assistants are leaving the field

Forty-six percent of dental assistants who voluntarily left the field did so because of insufficient pay, according to the American Dental Association’s “Dental Workforce Shortages” report.

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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.

Reasons for dental assistants voluntarily leaving the field:

1. Insufficient pay: 46 percent

2. Culture: 34.8 percent

3. Overworked: 34.8 percent

4. Lack of opportunity for growth and advancement: 33.3 percent

5. Inadequate benefits: 29.8 percent

6. Communication concerns in the practice: 25.8 percent

7. Family situation changed, wanted/needed more time at home: 20.7 percent

8. Career has not been satisfying: 18.2 percent

9. Planned to retire at this time in my career: 15.2 percent

10. Flexible work schedule needed: 11.6 percent

11. Practice philosophy: 10.6 percent

12. Safety concerns related to COVID-19: 8.6 percent

13. Patient attitudes: 5.6 percent

14. Pursued dental hygiene as a career: 0.5 percent

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.

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