ADA Contradicts Itself: “HPI: Dental Economy in Holding Pattern”

My take on the Q2 2025 ADA HPI Report
Full report link

What is the ADA doing here?

Yes, dentists are naturally skeptical—careful thinkers by nature. But as the leading voice of our profession, I believe the ADA has a responsibility not just to reflect our anxiety, but to help us rise above it.

Take this quote from the report:

“More dentists are skeptical than are confident in the overall U.S. economy,”

Marko Vujicic

Ph.D., ADA Chief Economist

Sure, that might be true. But repeating that skepticism without context or solutions isn’t leadership—it’s amplification. We already know it’s tough out there. What we need is perspective, not pessimism.

Let’s Talk Data, Not Vibes

The report itself contradicts the gloomy tone. Look at the actual numbers:

• Consumer dental spending is strong: Up 3% year-to-date, and 8% above pre-pandemic levels.
• Demand remains steady: Patient volume and wait times are holding steady.

If that’s not a vote of confidence from the public, I don’t know what is.

Yes, the report mentions “political uncertainty,” tariffs, and staffing challenges as top concerns. But are those unique to dentistry? Or are they just… the world right now?

Why not include more context to empower the profession? Show macroeconomic trends. Point to the growing number of hygiene and assisting programs. Highlight innovations and opportunities. Give us hope backed by data.

What I’m Seeing on the Ground

I attend startup seminars filled with future practice owners. I meet dentists who are frustrated with the DSO model and are eager to reclaim their autonomy. I see capital flowing into the space, with more financing options than ever before.

So yes—times have changed. The “Golden Age” where putting up a sign that says Dentist guaranteed success might be over. But that doesn’t mean decline—it means evolution.

Running a modern practice requires more effort, more business savvy, and more adaptability. But it also offers more upside. You’re building something real—for your patients, your team, and your family.

Let’s Shift the Narrative

There’s more wealth being created in dentistry today than ever before.
More education. More access. More entrepreneurial energy.

So instead of fixating on “declining confidence,” let’s look at:

• Consumer demand (still rising)
• Long-term health awareness (growing)
• Staffing? Yes, it’s a challenge—but one we can manage with the right systems and culture

Final Thought

If you disagree with me, I get it—and I respect it. But I’d love to show you what I see. Come with me to these events. Visit the practices we work with. The excitement, the energy, the progress—it’s real, and it’s inspiring.

Let’s stop chasing headlines of fear.
Let’s start building something bold.