Authors:

Abstract

Background

We examine the labor market for registered dental hygienists (RDHs) and dental assistants (DAs) in California from 1997 to 2005 to determine whether there was a shortage in either market.

Methods

This analysis uses economic indicators interpreted within an economic framework to investigate trends in labor force numbers and market-determined wages for RDHs and DAs. Rising average inflation-adjusted wages indicated a labor shortage while declining average inflation-adjusted wages indicated a labor surplus.

Results

From 1999-2002, RDHs' wages increased 48% and then stabilized, indicating a shortage had occured, after which the market achieved equilibrium. Wages for DAs increased 13.9% from 1997-2001, but then declined from 2001 to 2005 indicating a shortage that then became a surplus. The market for DAs may not have stabilized.

Conclusions

Wages increased for RDHs and DAs, suggesting labor shortages occurred in both markets. The large supply response in the market for DAs resulted in wages declining after their initial rise.

Practice Implications

Tracking the local labor markets for RDHs and DAs will enable dental professionals to more efficiently respond to market signals.

Full Article through the Journal of the American Dental Association

[Back To Top]