Schleswig-Holstein's dental care adapts as workforce shifts and retirements loom
Schleswig-Holstein's dental care adapts as workforce shifts and retirements loom
Number of dental practices in Schleswig-Holstein decreases - Schleswig-Holstein's dental care adapts as workforce shifts and retirements loom
Dental care in Schleswig-Holstein remains strong despite shifting workforce trends. The number of self-employed dentists has dropped slightly, while employed dentists and dental care centres are on the rise. However, dentist shortages and upcoming retirements could soon reshape the sector.
As of 2025, Schleswig-Holstein has 1,446 self-employed dentists and orthodontists, down from 1,473 at the start of the year. Five years ago, the figure stood at 1,588. Meanwhile, employed dentists have increased from 657 in 2024 to 721 in 2025, continuing a steady rise from 551 five years prior.
The state's dental care system remains well-positioned compared to other German regions. No area currently faces a risk of undersupply, with 1,192 active practices—though this is fewer than the 1,314 recorded five years ago. Dental insurance coverage has improved significantly, with coverage rising from 116.2% in 2015 to 132.8% by the end of 2024.
Yet challenges persist. A shortage of qualified dental assistants has forced some practices to reduce operating hours. The average dental care coverage rate has also dipped slightly, from 107.2% in 2015 to 99.1% in the latest assessment. With 39 dental care centres (MVZs) now operating across the state, the sector is adapting to workforce changes.
Looking ahead, the retirement of baby boomer dentists is expected to shrink numbers further. While no precise data exists on dentists over 65, reports highlight isolated dentist shortages, such as a Flensburg practice seeking a successor and rural areas like Dithmarschen and Berkenthin facing recruitment difficulties.
Schleswig-Holstein's dental care network stays robust for now, with no immediate dentist shortages. But the decline in self-employed dentists, coupled with upcoming retirements and staffing gaps, may test the system in the near future. The rise in employed dentists and dental care centres suggests a shift in how dental services are delivered.