If fewer dentists graduate in New Zealand between now and 2005, or if there is an increase in the demand for their services, it is predicted there will be a shortage of dentists. However, although there is an increase in the actual number of dentists in New Zealand, fewer dentists appear to remain active in the New Zealand workforce in the early stages of their careers. Some also look for employment opportunities outside dentistry. Women have been entering dentistry in similar numbers to men since 1986, but fewer work as full-time dentists. Some New Zealand dentists now employ dental hygienists to do routine tooth and gum treatments.
Dental hygiene is a relatively new occupation in New Zealand.