The dentist-to-population ratio is crucial in determining the success of a dental practice. The U.S. national average is 1,650 humans per dentist, with areas exceeding this ratio typically seeing faster marketing results. Conversely, areas below this ratio require more intensive marketing efforts. For example, Santa Barbara, CA, has a ratio of 1:323, making it challenging for dentists to build a full practice. Coastal and urban areas often have unfavorable ratios, while rural and suburban Midwest areas can have ratios as high as 1:6,000. Dentists should consider this ratio when opening or relocating a practice and adjust their expectations accordingly.

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