As of 2023, California, Texas, and New York had the largest number of active dentists working. California was ranked first with over 30 thousand active dentists. Despite having the largest number of dentists working, these states were not necessarily the states with the highest dentists to population ratio.

Dentistry within the U.S. – a supply cliff?

Recent estimates have suggested that the dentistry workforce in the U.S. is lacking by over 10,000 dentists. However, some states host a much higher number of dentists per capita. The top three states with the highest dentist density were Massachusetts, Alaska, and New Jersey. Despite variability across the United States, attractive salaries may be one way to attract more dentists to practice. In a recent survey of dental professionals, dentists that worked in non-solo private practices had some of the highest annual incomes among all dentists.

Dental access and use in the U.S.

Dental use and access are staggeringly low in the United States. However, it is recommended that all people should visit their dentist regularly for cleaning and maintenance even if they have no dental issues. One barrier to dental care can be the high costs attached to some services and the lack of dental insurance to pay for care. While a majority of those that access dental services have some form of coverage to help them pay, a significant proportion of those accessing dental services are not covered by any type of insurance. Recommendations for increasing access to dental services include targeted public health programs, better insurance options, and increasing the dental workforce within the U.S.

In 2023, with over 80 professionally active dentists per 100,000 population, Massachusetts was the state with the highest dentist to population ratio. This was followed by Alaska. While California had the highest number of dentist, it came fourth in terms of dentist density by state.

Over the past five years, dentists have faced changes and challenges. The pandemic caused a notable drop in revenue as monthly dental visits fell. However, as restrictions eased, the industry rebounded in 2021, with visit volumes and expenditures returning to pre-pandemic levels. This recovery happened amid persistent cost pressures because of rising prices for supplies and equipment, worsened by supply chain disruptions. Also, labor shortages forced dental practices to offer higher wages to attract and retain staff, squeezing profit. Despite these economic pressures, industry-wide revenue expanded at a CAGR of 3.9% to an estimated $190.4 billion in 2025, with a projected growth of 2.9% in 2025 alone. Legislation measures have enhanced work opportunities for dental professionals to address rising costs. The American Dental Association (ADA) and similar organizations are addressing workforce shortages with initiatives like interstate license compacts. These developments and the rise of Dental Service Organizations (DSOs) have significantly transformed organizational structures. By 2023, only 72.0% of dentists owned their practices, down from 85.0% in 2005, with nearly 13.0% affiliating with DSOs. This trend has attracted considerable private equity investment and firms now own 90.0% of top-performing DSOs. Dental practices adjust to insurance changes by offering membership packages, providing a cost-effective and transparent alternative to patients. Despite economic sensitivity, payment options with dental financing have supported the growing demand for cosmetic dentistry and expensive treatments. Looking to the future, technological advancements will impact quality, cost and delivery. Innovations like 3D printing, artificial intelligence (AI) and teledentistry enhance service precision, efficiency and accessibility. 3D printing enables the creation of highly accurate dental products, while AI improves diagnostics and treatment planning. However, these innovations require significant investment and mergers and acquisitions are expected to increase because solo practices often cannot meet the financial requirements or the scale to justify the expenditure independently. Although the dental sector demonstrated resilience to economic downturns, an aging population ensures a steady demand for age-related dental services, promoting revenue stability. Efforts to diversify revenue sources and offer innovative payment methods could shield the industry from economic volatility. Despite labor challenges, insurance program funding and affiliation changes, revenue is expected to strengthen at a CAGR of 2.1% to reach an estimated $211.6 billion in 2030, with profit increasing.

Market Size statistics on the Dentists industry in the US

This biannual report contains dental activity for England covering April to September 2021 and patients seen data for 24 month period (adults) and 12 month period (children) up to 31 December 2021. Please note that this report contains corrected patients seen data for the period between December 2020 and June 2021. For further information please see the Annex 5 data quality statement - see links below. This publication includes information about patients seen and NHS dental activity broken down to dental practice level. To limit COVID-19 transmissions, dental practices were instructed to close and cease all routine dental care from the 25th March 2020. The data reported in the publication including activity and patient numbers will be lower than expected during the time period of restrictions. Further information can be found in our 2019/20 Annual publication supplementary report and the Annex 5 data quality statement - see links below.

Snapshot img

US Dental Chains Market Size 2025-2029

The US dental chains market size is forecast to increase by USD 91.7 billion at a CAGR of 8.5% between 2024 and 2029.

The Dental Chains Market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the rising prevalence of oral cancers and the increasing adoption of advanced dental procedures. According to the World Health Organization, the number of oral cancer cases is projected to increase by 30% by 2030. This trend presents a substantial opportunity for dental chains to expand their offerings and cater to the growing demand for specialized dental care. However, the high cost associated with dental procedures poses a challenge for market growth. Despite the benefits of advanced dental treatments, affordability remains a significant barrier for many individuals, particularly in developing regions. The increasing number of dental practitioners in developed countries is driving market demand, as more individuals have access to orthodontic treatments.
Furthermore, regulatory hurdles impact adoption, as stringent regulations and lengthy approval processes can delay market entry for dental chains. Supply chain inconsistencies also temper growth potential, as the availability of high-quality dental equipment and supplies can vary significantly between regions. To capitalize on market opportunities and navigate challenges effectively, dental chains must focus on offering affordable pricing models and innovative financing options. Collaborating with insurance providers and government healthcare programs can help make dental care more accessible to a broader population. Additionally, investing in research and development to improve the efficiency and affordability of dental procedures can help dental chains differentiate themselves from competitors and attract price-sensitive consumers. However, the high costs of dental braces and procedures remain a challenge for some consumers, limiting market penetration in certain demographics.
The Dental Chains Market is poised for growth, driven by the increasing prevalence of oral cancers and the adoption of advanced dental procedures. However, challenges such as high costs, regulatory hurdles, and supply chain inconsistencies must be addressed to fully realize the market's potential. By focusing on affordability, innovation, and collaboration, dental chains can capitalize on market opportunities and navigate challenges effectively.

What will be the size of the US Dental Chains Market during the forecast period?

Request Free Sample

In the dynamic dental market, technology continues to revolutionize the industry, with CAD/CAM systems and robotic dentistry leading the charge. Patient portals and digital dentistry enable seamless communication between patients and dental practices, while online booking and appointment scheduling tools enhance convenience. Holistic dentistry emphasizes oral hygiene and overall health, integrating data analytics and dental education to deliver personalized care. Dental outreach and community programs expand dental care access, while value-based care and practice management solutions focus on improving dental care quality and affordability. Patient engagement is paramount, with mobile apps, dental health education, and 3D printing offering innovative solutions.
Dental data and analytics play a crucial role in informed decision-making, driving dental innovation and integrated care. Patient experience remains a top priority, with oral hygiene, preventive dentistry, and dental technology enhancing patient satisfaction. Dental innovation, appointment scheduling, and laser dentistry contribute to improved dental care, while data-driven strategies ensure efficient practice operations. Dental wellness and dental care quality are intertwined, with dental analytics and dental education fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

How is this market segmented?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Revenue Stream

  Endodontics
  Cosmetic dentistry
  Prosthodontics
  Orthodontics
  Others


Type

  Dental consumables
  Dental equipment


Service Type

  Preventive Care
  Restorative
  Elective and Cosmetic
  Surgical


Geography

  North America

    US

By Revenue Stream Insights

The endodontics segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The endodontics segment plays a significant role in the dental chains market in the US, providing specialized procedures for diagnosing and treating dental pulp conditions. Root canal therapies and related interventions are essential services offered to preserve natural dentition, contributing to the segment's revenue stream. Advanced techniques and clinical protocols

This annual report brings together information on NHS dental activity in England for the 12-month period to 31 March 2021 (including clinical treatments and dental workforce) and information on the number of patients seen by an NHS dentist up to 30 June 2021. This publication includes information about patients seen and NHS dental activity broken down to dental practice level. To limit COVID-19 transmissions, dental practices were instructed to close and cease all routine dental care from the 25th March 2020. The data reported in the publication including activity, patient numbers, finances and treatments, will be lower than expected during the time period of restrictions. Further information can be found in our 2019/20 Annual publication supplementary report and the Annex 5 data quality statement - see links below.

This annual report brings together information on NHS dental activity in England for the 12-month period to 31 March 2020 (including clinical treatments and dental workforce) and information on the number of patients seen by an NHS dentist up to 30 June 2020. This publication includes information about patients seen and NHS dental activity broken down to dental practice level. To limit COVID-19 transmissions, dental practices were instructed to close and cease all routine dental care from the 25th March 2020. The data reported in the publication including activity, patient numbers, finances and treatments, will be lower than expected during the time period of restrictions. The supplementary report for this publication estimates the impact on the number of patients seen and more information can be found in Annex 5 data quality statement.

This table contains 155232 series, with data for years 2000 - 2000 (not all combinations necessarily have data for all years). This table contains data described by the following dimensions (Not all combinations are available): Age group (14 items: Total; 12 years and over; 12 to 14 years; 15 to 19 years; 12 to 19 years ...) Sex (3 items: Both sexes; Females; Males ...) Dental visits (6 items: Total; dental visits; Dental visits; 3 or more years ago; Dental visits; 1 year to less than 3 years ago; Dental visits; within past 12 months ...) - Characteristics (8 items: Number of persons; Low 95% confidence interval; number of persons; Coefficient of variation for number of persons; High 95% confidence interval; number of persons ...).

In 2019, around ** percent of the population aged between 2 and 17 years had a dental visit in the past 12 months. This statistic shows the percentage of the U.S. population aged two years and older with a dental visit in the preceding 12 months between 1997 and 2019.

Forecast: Population Per Dentists Graduates in Finland 2023 - 2027 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

Dental Explorers Market Outlook

The global dental explorers market size was valued at approximately USD 1.3 billion in 2023 and is poised to reach an estimated USD 2.1 billion by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6% from 2024 to 2032. The market growth is mainly driven by the increasing prevalence of dental disorders and the rising awareness about oral health globally. The surge in dental visits, coupled with advancements in dental diagnostic tools, are significant contributors to this market's robust expansion.

One of the primary growth factors for the dental explorers market is the growing aging population, which is more susceptible to dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) predicts that by 2050, the global population aged 60 years and older will total 2 billion, up from 900 million in 2015. This demographic shift significantly increases the demand for dental services and preventive care, thereby driving the need for dental explorers. Moreover, the increased focus on preventive dental care to avoid complex procedures is further accelerating market growth.

Technological advancements in dental diagnostic tools are another major growth driver. Innovations such as digital dental explorers, which provide more accurate and detailed assessments of dental health, are becoming more prevalent. These tools help in early detection of dental issues, thereby improving patient outcomes. The integration of such advanced diagnostic tools in dental practices is not only enhancing the precision of dental examinations but also reducing the time required for diagnosis, which is highly beneficial for both patients and dental professionals.

Additionally, the rising dental tourism industry is contributing to the growth of the dental explorers market. Countries like India, Thailand, and Mexico have become popular destinations for dental procedures due to their cost-effective services and high-quality care. This trend is not only boosting the market in those regions but also prompting technological advancements and investments in dental equipment, including explorers, in order to cater to the influx of international patients. Moreover, dental insurance coverage has been expanding, allowing more people to afford regular dental check-ups and treatments, thus driving the demand for dental explorers.

From a regional perspective, North America holds a dominant position in the dental explorers market, driven by high healthcare expenditure, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and a significant focus on oral health. Europe follows as the second-largest market due to similar healthcare standards and an increasing geriatric population. The Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, driven by rising healthcare investments, increasing awareness about dental health, and growing medical tourism. Countries like China and India are anticipated to be key contributors to this regional growth.

Product Type Analysis

The dental explorers market is segmented into double-ended explorers and single-ended explorers. Double-ended explorers are widely used in dental practices due to their versatility and efficiency. These tools feature different types of explorer tips on either end, allowing dentists to perform multiple diagnostic procedures without the need to switch instruments. The convenience offered by double-ended explorers makes them a popular choice in both diagnostic and surgical applications. This segment is expected to maintain a significant market share over the forecast period, driven by its broad usage and the ongoing need for efficient dental diagnostic tools.

Single-ended explorers, on the other hand, have a more specialized application but are equally important in dental diagnostics. These tools are typically used for precise examination of specific areas in the mouth. They are particularly useful in detecting areas of decay, calculus, and other abnormalities. The single-ended explorers market is anticipated to grow steadily, supported by increasing demand for specialized dental diagnostic tools that offer precision. Innovations in single-ended explorers, such as ergonomic designs and advanced materials for better durability and comfort, are also contributing to the market's growth.

The choice between double-ended and single-ended

This dataset shows the Principal statistics of dental services, 1971 - 2017. Footnote: No census/ survey was conducted for the years 1980, 1982, 1993, 1995, 1997, 1998, 2000, 2001, 2004, 2006, 2008, 2009, 2011 - 2014, 2016 and 2017. Number of establishments, value of gross output, value of intermediate input, and value added are only available from the year 2002 onwards. Source: Department of Statistics, Malaysia.

In 2023, there was an average of roughly 3,600 yearly patient visits per dentist. There have been great fluctuations during the recorded period. This statistic shows the average number of yearly patient visits per U.S. specialist dentist from 1990 to 2023.

Attendance at the last visit to the dentist according to gender and age groups. Population who have ever visited a dentist. National.

The US dental chain market is a significant and rapidly growing sector, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.10% from 2019 to 2033. While the precise market size (XX million) requires further specification, the substantial growth is fueled by several key drivers. These include an aging population with increasing dental needs, rising disposable incomes allowing for greater access to elective cosmetic procedures, and improved dental insurance coverage expanding the patient base. Furthermore, technological advancements in dental care, such as the adoption of laser dentistry and digital imaging, enhance efficiency and treatment quality, contributing to market expansion. Key trends include the consolidation of dental practices into larger chains, driven by economies of scale and improved operational efficiency. This consolidation also facilitates the integration of technology and standardized quality control across multiple locations. The growing emphasis on preventative dentistry and the increasing awareness of oral health's impact on overall well-being also contribute to market growth. However, the market faces certain restraints, including the high cost of dental procedures which can limit access for a segment of the population, particularly those without insurance. Varying regulations across states also create operational complexities for larger chains. The market is segmented by services, encompassing general dentistry, cosmetic dentistry, restorative dentistry, laser dentistry, dental surgery, and other services, allowing for granular analysis of service-specific growth and demand. Major players such as Pacific Dental Services Inc., Heartland Dental LLC, and Western Dental Services Inc., among others, are shaping the competitive landscape through acquisitions, expansion, and strategic partnerships, further consolidating the market and influencing its growth trajectory. Geographical analysis will likely show the US as the dominant market within North America, followed by other regions based on population demographics and economic factors. The market's future prospects appear promising, with the forecast period (2025-2033) poised for continued expansion. The continued rise in the aging population, coupled with increased awareness and demand for both preventative and cosmetic dental care, will remain significant growth drivers. However, challenges remain, including addressing the issue of affordability and ensuring equitable access to quality dental care for all populations. Further market segmentation by region (beyond the provided list encompassing North America, South America, Europe, Middle East & Africa, and Asia Pacific) will provide a more nuanced understanding of regional variations in growth rates and market dynamics. Innovative service offerings, such as telehealth dentistry and the adoption of AI-powered diagnostics, are also anticipated to impact the market in the coming years. Competitive pressures will likely intensify as existing players consolidate their market share and new entrants emerge, leading to a dynamic landscape characterized by mergers, acquisitions, and strategic alliances. Therefore, a comprehensive competitive analysis, including an assessment of each major player's market share, strategic initiatives, and financial performance, will be crucial for understanding the future trajectory of the US dental chain market. This report provides a detailed analysis of the US dental chain market, examining its concentration, characteristics, trends, and future growth potential. The market is valued in the billions of dollars and is characterized by a dynamic interplay of established players and emerging trends. Recent developments include: February 2022: Smile Brands revealed a fresh affiliation with G's Dental Studio in Cedar Park and Leander, Texas, aiming to enhance the studio's buying power and streamline administrative support with payroll, purchasing, and accounting services., February 2022: Weave's customer communication platform was successfully integrated across all of Dental Care Alliance's nationwide sites., January 2022: Pacific Dental Services expanded its collaboration with Envista, incorporating the dental supplies firm Spark Clear Aligner System into their partnership.. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Geriatric Population and Surging Demand For Preventive and Restorative Dental Care, Increasing Demand for Teledentistry and Advancement in Dental Procedures. Potential restraints include: Inadequate Reimbursement and the High Cost of Dental Services. Notable trends are: Cosmetic Dentistry Segment is Expected to Witness High Growth Over the Forecast Period..

Forecast: Population Per Dentists Graduates in Germany 2023 - 2027 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

Dental Care Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global dental care market size reached USD 50.4 billion in 2024, reflecting robust demand and increasing awareness regarding oral health. The market is growing at a steady CAGR of 6.2% from 2025 to 2033, driven by technological advancements, rising prevalence of dental diseases, and expanding consumer focus on preventive dental care. By 2033, the dental care market is forecasted to reach USD 86.1 billion, marking significant expansion in both developed and emerging regions. As per the latest research, this growth trajectory is underpinned by a confluence of demographic shifts, increasing disposable incomes, and enhanced access to innovative dental products and services worldwide.

One of the primary growth factors propelling the dental care market is the surging prevalence of dental disorders such as caries, periodontal diseases, and oral cancers. The World Health Organization estimates that oral diseases affect nearly 3.5 billion people globally, underscoring the urgent need for effective dental care solutions. This widespread occurrence of oral health issues has heightened public awareness and prompted governments and private organizations to invest in oral health promotion campaigns. Additionally, the increased adoption of preventive dental care practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and use of mouthwashes, has fueled demand for a diverse range of dental care products. The growing trend of cosmetic dentistry, including teeth whitening and orthodontic procedures, further contributes to the expansion of the market, as consumers seek to enhance both oral health and aesthetics.

Technological innovation is another significant driver shaping the dental care market landscape. The integration of digital technologies, including teledentistry, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence, has revolutionized dental diagnostics, treatment planning, and patient engagement. These advancements have improved the accuracy and efficiency of dental procedures, resulting in better patient outcomes and increased adoption of dental care services. The proliferation of smart toothbrushes, personalized oral care solutions, and minimally invasive dental treatments is also transforming consumer expectations and elevating the standard of care. Furthermore, the rise of e-commerce platforms and direct-to-consumer models has made dental care products more accessible, especially in remote and underserved regions, thereby broadening the market’s reach.

Demographic trends, particularly the aging global population, play a pivotal role in the growth of the dental care market. The geriatric population, which is more susceptible to dental problems such as tooth loss, gum disease, and oral cancer, is expanding at an unprecedented rate. This demographic shift, coupled with increasing life expectancy, has created a substantial demand for specialized dental care products and services tailored to older adults. Moreover, rising disposable incomes and changing lifestyles in emerging economies have led to greater expenditure on oral hygiene and cosmetic dental treatments. As consumers become more health-conscious and value-driven, the demand for premium and innovative dental products continues to rise, further propelling market growth.

From a regional perspective, North America currently dominates the global dental care market, accounting for the largest revenue share in 2024, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. The high prevalence of dental diseases, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and strong presence of leading market players contribute to North America’s leadership position. However, the Asia Pacific region is poised for the fastest growth during the forecast period, driven by increasing healthcare expenditure, rising awareness about oral health, and a burgeoning middle-class population. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing steady growth, supported by improving healthcare access and government initiatives to promote oral hygiene. This diverse regional landscape underscores the global nature of the dental care market and highlights the need for tailored strategies to address unique market dynamics across different geographies.

The US dental chain market, a significant segment of the broader dental industry, is experiencing robust growth, driven by factors such as an aging population requiring more dental care, increasing dental insurance coverage, and rising consumer demand for convenient and comprehensive dental services. The market's expansion is further fueled by technological advancements in dental procedures, including laser dentistry and advanced restorative techniques, leading to improved treatment outcomes and patient experience. Consolidation within the industry, with larger chains acquiring smaller practices, is also a key trend, leading to economies of scale and enhanced operational efficiency. While potential restraints include economic downturns impacting consumer spending on non-essential healthcare services and increasing regulatory scrutiny, the overall market outlook remains positive, projecting a sustained growth trajectory over the forecast period. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of large national chains and regional players. Major players like Heartland Dental, Smile Brands, and Pacific Dental Services are leveraging their size and established networks to expand their market share through acquisitions and strategic partnerships. The increasing emphasis on preventative care and the growing adoption of digital dentistry, including teledentistry and advanced imaging technologies, present opportunities for further market expansion. However, challenges remain in ensuring equitable access to dental care across different demographics and geographical locations. The market is likely to witness further innovation in service offerings, pricing strategies, and technological adoption, impacting both market dynamics and consumer behavior in the coming years. This will continue to shape the landscape of the US dental chain market, making it a dynamic and attractive sector for both investors and service providers. Recent developments include: February 2022: Smile Brands revealed a fresh affiliation with G's Dental Studio in Cedar Park and Leander, Texas, aiming to enhance the studio's buying power and streamline administrative support with payroll, purchasing, and accounting services., February 2022: Weave's customer communication platform was successfully integrated across all of Dental Care Alliance's nationwide sites., January 2022: Pacific Dental Services expanded its collaboration with Envista, incorporating the dental supplies firm Spark Clear Aligner System into their partnership.. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Geriatric Population and Surging Demand For Preventive and Restorative Dental Care, Increasing Demand for Teledentistry and Advancement in Dental Procedures. Potential restraints include: Growing Geriatric Population and Surging Demand For Preventive and Restorative Dental Care, Increasing Demand for Teledentistry and Advancement in Dental Procedures. Notable trends are: Cosmetic Dentistry Segment is Expected to Witness High Growth Over the Forecast Period..