Sarasota, FL (WorkersCompensation.com) — The numbers paint a clear picture: the dental industry is grappling with an unprecedented staffing deficit. The American Dental Association (ADA) reports that staffing shortages have reduced dental practice capacity by 10 percent. That means that most practices could see more patients if they had more staff. And the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) reports the country will need at least 10,802 more dentists by 2025.
Ward Blackwell, executive director of the Pennsylvania Dental Association, described the situation as a “perfect storm.’’
During the early months of the pandemic, many dental practices could not operate, and some older dentists decided to retire early. Some older hygienists and assistants retired, too, and other left the field, according to Blackwell.
