Thirty percent of dentists are doing more hygiene procedures compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a new report from the American Dental Association.
The American Dental Association compiled the results from its "Dentist Trend Report" survey and "Consumer Trend Report" survey for its 2024 "Communications Trend Report." The report aims to identify emerging issues for the dental industry and help improve communication between dentists, the ADA and other dental organization decision makers.
The "Dentist Trend Report" survey was conducted between March and April with 560 respondents. The "Consumer Trend Report" survey was conducted in March with more than 1,000 consumers throughout the U.S.
Workforce shortages are the leading cause behind dentists performing more hygiene services, according to the report. Over 72% of dentists find it extremely challenging to recruit a dental hygienist.
In addition to workforce shortages, five other reasons were listed as to why dentists are performing more hygiene procedures. Here is how all six reasons ranked:
Staff shortages: 75%
Too many patients: 29%
Cost: 14%
Insurance reimbursement: 14%
Personal preference: 13%
Other: 10%