According to the October quarterly report from the American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute (HPI), by the third quarter of 2025, approximately half of U.S. dentists said they remained confident in their profession and the dental industry. However, nearly two-thirds expressed skepticism about the overall U.S. economy.
HPI data show that all economic confidence indicators have declined compared to the beginning of 2025. The top reason dentists cited for economic pessimism was tariffs, followed by high uncertainty, domestic political and social unrest, dissatisfaction with the current administration, and ongoing war or geopolitical tensions.
Interestingly, some of these factors also contributed to optimism among those who remained optimistic. Dentists who expressed confidence in the economy cited reasons such as increased stability, economic resilience, and satisfaction with current trade, tariff, and tax policies. Others simply described a general sense of optimism.
Among those who expressed low confidence in the dental industry, low insurance reimbursement was the top concern. Other key issues included a weak overall economy, patient financial constraints, a lack of prioritization of oral health, and policy uncertainty.
One dentist commented, “Federal cuts to welfare programs could hurt my business and increase unemployment. Additionally, the cost of medical supplies is rising.” Another dentist added, “Patients are losing their jobs and insurance, and with the rising costs of basic needs, dental care is no longer a priority.”
Despite this, some dentists remain optimistic. “Many baby boomer dentists are retiring, and few younger dentists are willing to own their own practices,” noted one practicing dentist. “This could increase patient volume for existing practices.”
On the consumer side, spending has increased by 4% since the beginning of 2025 and by 10% since the pandemic began—modest increases that were quickly offset by rising costs.
Meanwhile, office activity is slowing. A report found that the average wait time for new patient appointments has dropped to its lowest point in more than two years, indicating reduced demand and more flexible hours at many dental practices.