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Hours worked by dentists vary by experience

Dentists who are 10 years out of dental school or less work more hours per week than more experienced dentists, data shows.

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Research from the ADA Health Policy Institute shows an ongoing increase in weekly working hours for U.S. dentists since 2010, regardless of experience. Dentists with ten years or less post-graduation are notably working more, averaging over 37 hours per week in 2024, in contrast to their more experienced counterparts, who average around 35 hours. This trend highlights the evolving demands and work-life balance challenges faced by dental professionals today.

Original Source(s)

Hours worked by dentists vary by experience

  • by Mary Beth Versaci

  • March 17, 2026

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