Dental professionals have third-highest distressed, struggling rate

The percentage of dental professionals who reported being distressed or struggling was the third highest across eight healthcare occupations, according to the 2025-2026 State of Well-Being Report.

The report is compiled each year based on results from the Well-Being Index, an anonymous, validated self-assessment tool developed by Mayo Clinic that measures multiple dimensions of clinician distress and well-being.

In 2025, 45.3% of dental users of the index — including dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants — reported they were distressed or struggling, behind only nursing at 50.3% and employees (nonphysician clinical and support staff) at 46%.

All dentists, specialists, dental students and team members have free access to the index at ADA.org/wellness.