Why so many dentists in DC?

[Tooth]

https://www.ada.org/~/media/ADA/Science and Research/HPI/Files/HPIgraphic_0716_1.pdf?la=en

Why are there so many dentists in DC? Does anyone know any dentists who work there? I've been to DC. It's not that cool. The ADA says the dentist to population ratio there is 90/100k vs national average of 60/100k. I'm guessing it's insurance. Either average reimbursement rate is 100% which dramatically increases case acceptance rates or because there are so many government employees it's just that nearly 100% of the population has insurance which also increases case acceptance, or perhaps it's a combo. Does anyone know anyone who works there who can provide insight as to the insurance environment over there?

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[prime1time]

The real question is, what's the concentration of dentists in major urban areas. DC is a major urban area. So if you're going to have a graph that compares DC to the various states around the country of course there will be a difference. Personally, I have to disagree with your resining behind the higher number of dentists. The reason there are more dentists in DC is because the average dentist is highly educated and these days most highly educated people want to live in a major urban area. If anything you could argue that by living in DC they are making less money not more.

 

[mmc12]

Urban amenities, culture, fantastic museums, good food, etc.... the same reasons why most people want to live in big cities...

 

[allDAT]

Too many reasons to list. DC in comparison to many other places is quite unique and a great place to live if you want to live in a major metro.

It depends what you want out of your life, but there are many opportunities that require close proximity to DC. You also have access to world-class entertainment, a diverse population, several airports, and all major sports leagues.

As far as dentistry goes, the workforce in DC is affluent and typically well compensated in comparison to the average American. There are lots of professionals to socialize and collaborate with outside of work, and many people are career oriented and realize that their teeth (their smile) is an important part of their advancement.