Pediatric dentistry workforce issues: a task force white paper. American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Task Force on Work Force Issues.

Abstract

The number of current practitioners, academicians, and researchers in Pediatric Dentistry is clearly not adequate to meet the need and demand. The shortage in academia is dire. Simply put, not enough pediatric dentists are being trained. The rate limiting factor is the number of training positions. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry established a "Task Force on Work Force Issues" approximately 18 months ago and charged that group to seek methods for creating more training positions. This paper reflects the Task Force deliberations, documents the shortage of pediatric dental specialists, and recommends tactics for amelioration.