The Dental Assistant Workforce in 2026
According to Dentalpost’s 2026 Dental Salary Survey Report, 71% of dental assistants currently work in private practice settings. This survey, which gathered responses from nearly 3,575 dental professionals between August 29 and September 30, 2025, highlights important workforce and salary trends shaping the dental industry.
Workforce Challenges and Legislative Developments
Several states are actively addressing workforce shortages and expanding the roles of dental care professionals through legislation. For example, the Florida House recently passed a bill authorizing dental therapists to perform local anesthesia, nitrous oxide administration, and nonsurgical tooth extractions under supervision. These dental therapists must graduate from accredited programs and be licensed to practice.
In Virginia, dentists and hygienists are debating bills aimed at alleviating workforce shortages by expanding duties for dental assistants, such as allowing certification as preventive dental assistants. These legislative efforts reflect a broader industry movement to optimize workforce capacity and improve access to care.
Hygiene Staffing and Retirement Trends
The dental hygiene workforce is seeing positive signs with improvements in job satisfaction and retention according to the 2026 Dentalpost report. However, continuity remains at risk due to an aging workforce, with 27% of hygienists planning to retire within the next five years. This impending wave of retirements could impact service availability and practice stability.
Dentists’ Practice Settings and Retirement Plans
Private practice remains the dominant setting for dentists, with 83% working in this environment. However, there is growing concern about long-term continuity risks as an increasing number of dentists approach retirement age. Many are considering selling their practices, which could lead to shifts in ownership structures and market dynamics.
Despite these challenges, dentists report a generally high level of job satisfaction. The Dentalpost survey indicates that while compensation growth is mixed, the profession continues to offer rewarding career opportunities.
DSOs and Practice Growth in Early 2026
Dental service organizations (DSOs) are actively expanding their networks. For instance, Heartland Dental added seven new offices in January across Florida, Texas, and Georgia. MB2 Dental partnered with four new dentists, and Specialty1 Partners expanded its associate-to-partner program to foster growth opportunities for specialists.
Other DSOs like Salt Dental Partners have added pediatric dentistry practices in Oregon and New York, illustrating a strategic focus on diversified care offerings. PDS Health, known for its integrated care approach, plans to open over 100 new de novo offices in 2026, further emphasizing the growth momentum within DSOs.
Technology and AI Integration in Dental Practices
Technology continues to reshape dental care delivery. Planet DDS recently launched an AI-powered voice periodontal charting system within its Denticon platform. This innovation automates data entry during exams, helping DSOs maintain consistent and accurate periodontal records.
Additionally, PDS Health has partnered with Pearl to expand AI integration across its practices, aiming to improve patient experience and operational efficiency. These advancements highlight the increasing role of AI in both clinical and administrative aspects of dentistry.
Federal Support and Industry Financial Trends
The dental industry received a boost through the bipartisan Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. Signed into law on February 3, this $1.2 trillion bill provides additional funding to health programs, including those supporting oral healthcare.
Financially, the national dental expenditure reached a record $189 billion in 2024, marking a $7 billion increase from the previous year. After adjusting for inflation, dental spending grew 4%, indicating sustained investment and demand within the sector.
Looking Ahead
The dental industry in 2026 is navigating workforce transitions, technological advancements, and evolving practice models. Legislative efforts to expand scopes of practice and improve workforce capacity, along with growing DSO networks and AI adoption, are shaping a dynamic landscape.
For dental professionals and leaders, staying informed about these trends and adapting to changes will be key to sustaining quality care and operational success in the coming years.