Massachusetts Dental Workforce: How Many Dentists Are in Massachusetts?

Ever tried to make a dental appointment only to find there’s a long waitlist? Or maybe wondered why you see so many dental offices but still hear about a shortage of healthcare workers? If you’re looking up “how many dentists in Massachusetts” or just want to know about the state’s dental workers, you’re not alone! Whether you’re just curious, a dental student planning your future, or someone who’s having trouble getting a quick cleaning, this is a good question—and it really matters.

Let’s make it easy to understand. We’ll look not just at the numbers, but also what they mean for you: how dentists are spread out, what it means for getting care, and why it’s more than just numbers.

In This Article

• 1. Why Does the Number of Dentists in Massachusetts Matter?
• 2. How Many Dentists Are There in Massachusetts?
• 3. Understanding the Dental Workforce: Who Are Massachusetts’ Dentists?
• 4. What Impacts the Number of Dentists in Massachusetts?
• 5. What Does This Mean for Access to Dental Care?
• 6. Frequently Asked Questions
• 7. Key Takeaways for Your Dental Health

1. Why Does the Number of Dentists in Massachusetts Matter?

Maybe you had to find a new dentist after moving, or you saw a friend have a hard time getting fast help with a dental problem. Every time someone asks “how many?” there’s also a “why.” Why does this matter for you—and for everyone in Massachusetts?

Here’s why:

• Getting care: The right number of dentists makes it easier to get help when you need it—fewer long waits, more choices, and better health.
• Public health: Dentists often spot major problems early, from tooth troubles to even some cancers. More dentists can mean better health, especially in areas where not enough dentists work.
• Planning for the future: From people making rules to dental students planning what’s next, knowing how many dentists are out there helps everyone get ready for a healthier future.

So, the answer to “How many dentists are in Massachusetts?” matters for all kinds of reasons—from jobs to your next checkup.

2. How Many Dentists Are There in Massachusetts?

Here’s what you want to know. As of the latest counts (2020-2023), Massachusetts has about 6,500 to 7,000 licensed dentists who are keeping up their licenses. These numbers come from the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry, the Massachusetts Dental Society, and the Department of Public Health.

Here’s the latest snapshot:

The numbers change a bit every year, as people retire, new ones start, or needs change. But this is a pretty good picture.

But is that a lot? Well, Massachusetts actually has a better ratio of dentists to people (90-100 per 100,000 people) than most of the country—so, we’re in pretty good shape.

Where Does This Data Come From?

The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry keeps track of dentists who are licensed, while the Massachusetts Department of Public Health watches workforce trends. The Massachusetts Dental Society also adds up the numbers.

3. Understanding the Dental Workforce: Who Are Massachusetts’ Dentists?

General Dentists vs. Dental Specialists

When you think dentist, you probably think of your regular one. But in Massachusetts, there are all kinds of dentists:

• General Dentists: About 75–80% (around 5,000–5,300 dentists). These are your regular dentists for checkups, fillings, and everyday tooth care.
• Dental Specialists: About 20–25% (1,300–1,700 dentists), who are experts in:
• Braces (Orthodontists)
• Oral Surgeons (do tough tooth pulling and big surgeries)
• Children’s Dentists (Pediatric Dentists)
• Root Canal Experts (Endodontists)
• Gum Experts (Periodontists)
• Denture & Implant Experts (Prosthodontists)

Analogy: Your Dental Care “Dream Team”

Think of your general dentist like your main doctor, with specialists there for special jobs.

Where Are Dentists Located?

Most dentists work in big cities or suburbs—Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and nearby places. That’s where more people live. If you go to Western Massachusetts, there are fewer dentists, and people might have to drive a long way just for basic care.

• Boston Area: Lots of dentists
• Western MA & rural spots: Fewer dentists, longer waits

Who Are The Dentists?

• Age: The average Massachusetts dentist is about 45–55 years old. Many are getting close to retirement.
• Men and Women: About 35–45% are women, and that number is rising. There are also more dentists from different backgrounds than ever before, but there’s still a way to go to match the community.

4. What Impacts the Number of Dentists in Massachusetts?

Great question! How many dentists work here comes from schools, rules, job changes, and even new tech. Here’s what matters:

Dental Schools: Where Dentists Start

Massachusetts is home to three big dental schools—Tufts, Boston University, and Harvard—which means about 300–400 new dentists are trained every year.

But not all of them stay! Some leave to work in other places, and others move here later.

Getting Licensed

The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry has rules for who can practice. Dentists coming from out of state, or new graduates from somewhere else, have to meet those standards.

Money, Rules, and New Ways to Work

• Practice Styles: Fewer people run their own office now; more work in groups or with big companies that handle business stuff.
• Retirement and Hiring: Since many dentists are older, more are leaving the workforce than joining, especially in smaller towns. It’s tough to get new dentists to work in country areas.
• Dental Tech: Cool new things like digital dental labs, computer crowns, and online checkups are changing how (and where) dentists can work.

Insurance and Medicaid

About 30–40% of Massachusetts dentists accept MassHealth (the state Medicaid program). If you have a lower income, it can be harder to find a dentist who takes your insurance, especially in rural and city areas that already have fewer dentists.

5. What Does This Mean for Access to Dental Care?

The big number—6,500 to 7,000 dentists—doesn’t tell the whole story. What really matters is if you can see a dentist when you need to, somewhere close, and without a huge wait.

Good News: Plenty of Dentists On Average

Compared to other states, Massachusetts does well—lots of choices, especially near Boston. In these areas, you can usually get care quickly, and may even choose between dentists or dental ceramics labs for special work.

The Problem: Not Even Everywhere

Some country areas and some city neighborhoods are “Dental Health Professional Shortage Areas” (DHPSAs)—places with long waits or long drives. Kids, older adults, and those on MassHealth can have the hardest time.

Example: Western Massachusetts

In Western MA, community dental clinics cover big areas. If your dentist retires, you might have to drive an hour or more to see someone new.

Example: MassHealth Coverage

If you have MassHealth, finding a dentist can be even harder. Some dentists do take it, but not all can because of payment rules, so families with MassHealth may have even fewer local choices.

What’s Being Done?

Dental groups (like the Massachusetts Dental Society) know about these problems. They run programs to get new dentists into low-access areas, and state groups track where help is needed. New tech, such as digital dental labs and online dental care, is starting to help even in far-away places.

6. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How does Massachusetts compare with other states?

A: Massachusetts usually has more dentists per person—about 90–100 per 100,000, while the national average is about 61–65. You have a better chance of finding a dentist here than almost anywhere else!

Q: Are there enough dentists for kids or specialty care?

A: Mostly yes (about 20–25% are specialists), but in some parts of the state, you may have to travel for those services, especially for children or tricky problems.

Q: Should we worry about dentists retiring?

A: Yes. Many dentists are between 45 and 55, so retirements could lead to fewer dentists, especially outside cities.

Q: Does Massachusetts help rural or low-access areas?

A: There are loan repayment programs, support for community clinics, and other ways the state tries to help. If you’re having trouble finding care, check with your local health department or community health clinic.

Q: Can technology and new dental labs help?

A: Yes! Modern dental labs, like some implant dental labs, can bring faster, better care. Also, online “teledentistry” care can help fix some access problems.

7. Key Takeaways for Your Dental Health

• Massachusetts has about 6,500–7,000 dentists, split between regular dentists and specialists.
• Most work in cities and suburbs; rural and some city neighborhoods don’t have enough dentists.
• Retirements could mean shortages, especially outside the cities.
• MassHealth/Medicaid can affect your choices— fewer dentists take it.
• New tech and lab support mean faster and better care across the state.

How Can You Find the Right Dentist in Massachusetts?

• Need a dentist? Try local directories or the Massachusetts Dental Society to search by location or insurance.
• Can’t find care? Call your local community health center; they can help.
• Planning a dental procedure? Ask your dentist about the best labs or tech for your needs.
• Thinking about a dental career? The state needs new dentists, especially outside the cities.

Remember: Regular checkups make a big difference. Even with a wait, booking ahead means fewer problems later.

Empower Yourself: What To Do Next

• Book your next visit. Even if there’s a little wait, get on the list now.
• Be ready when you move or a dentist retires. Start looking early.
• Ask questions. Your dental team will help you figure out options, insurance, and the best crown and bridge lab if you need more complex care.
• Tell friends and family. Good health is a group thing!
• Want a dental career? Massachusetts has lots of good schools, and communities looking for new dentists.

Final Thoughts

Massachusetts has a strong, skilled, and growing dental workforce—but things can change. Whether you’re interested in working in the field or just want great dental care, knowing these numbers helps you make better choices for your own health.

Have more questions? Ask your dentist, check with the Massachusetts Dental Society, or contact a local public health office. Your smile is worth it.

Sources: Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry, Massachusetts Department of Public Health, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Massachusetts Dental Society. For the newest data, check official state reports and trusted groups.

See our detailed practical guide for more tips on getting dental care, knowing your choices, and keeping your teeth healthy—no matter what!