Private practice of prosthodontists in the United States: Results from the 2024 survey of prosthodontists and trends since 2008.

Abstract

Purpose: To characterize current private practice patterns of prosthodontists in the United States using the 2024 American College of Prosthodontists (ACP) survey and to assess longitudinal trends relative to surveys conducted between 2008 and 2017.

Materials and methods: A web-based survey was distributed to 2793 prosthodontists from December 6, 2024, to January 31, 2025, and a total of 284 responses were received (10%). Analyses focused on those in private practice, and survey domains included demographics, practice organization, clinical activity, and financial performance and were compared with prior ACP surveys.

Results: The mean age of private practice respondents was approximately 55 years, reflecting continued workforce aging. Female representation increased to about 25%. Practice models shifted away from sole proprietorship toward group and employed arrangements. Most respondents worked 40-49 h per week, with 30-39 h devoted to patient care. Fixed prosthodontics and implant procedures accounted for the largest share of clinical time and revenue, and general dentists remained the primary referral source. Mean gross receipts exceeded $2.1 million, and mean net income was over $500,000, representing substantial improvement compared with earlier survey periods.

Conclusion: The 2024 survey demonstrates a marked recovery in the economic performance of private practice prosthodontists compared with declines observed between 2008 and 2017. Long-term trends toward an aging workforce and increasing female representation persist. Structural shifts away from solo practice continue, reflecting broader changes within dentistry. Despite these changes, core clinical practice patterns remain stable, with fixed and implant prosthodontics dominating practice activity and revenue.