The 2025 Dental Hygienist Shortage: Causes, Impact, and Solutions

The dental hygienist shortage has reached critical levels in 2025, with the ADA reporting that 70% of practices struggle to fill open positions.

What's Causing the Shortage?

Several factors have converged to create what many are calling a "perfect storm" in dental staffing:

• Pandemic Exodus: An estimated 8% of hygienists left the profession during 2020-2021 and haven't returned.
• Limited Training Programs: Dental hygiene schools can only graduate about 7,500 new hygienists per year—far below demand.
• Aging Workforce: The average age of practicing hygienists is now 44, with many approaching retirement.
• Burnout: 62% of hygienists report feeling burned out, leading to reduced hours or career changes.

Practical Solutions for Practice Owners

While there's no magic solution, successful practices are combining multiple strategies:

1. Competitive Compensation Packages

Hourly rates for hygienists have increased 15-25% since 2019. Practices offering sign-on bonuses, flexible scheduling, and comprehensive benefits are winning the talent war.

2. On-Demand Staffing Platforms

Apps like GoTu, Toothio, and Kwikly allow practices to fill last-minute gaps without long-term commitments. This hybrid approach maintains productivity while searching for permanent hires.

3. Expanded Scope of Practice

Some states are allowing dental assistants to perform more preventive procedures, helping practices maintain patient flow with existing staff.