Estimating Future Demand for Dental Prostheses and Workforce Needs in a Dental Care Setting: The Saudi Experience

INTRODUCTION AND AIM: In line with global and national goals to improve healthcare access and quality, this study projected prosthetic needs in young adults to guide prevention, training, and staffing at KAUDH. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2025 among 1000 children for tooth loss and prosthetic need. Institutional demographic data projected population growth to 2035. Prosthesis demand, chairside time, and staffing capacity were estimated using prevalence rates, curriculum data, and surveys. RESULTS: Tooth loss prevalence was 9.5%, with first molars most affected (7.8%) due to caries (96.1%). 97.4% of missing teeth required one-unit prostheses. Projected annual cases rose from 3,588 in 2025 to 5,520 in 2035, requiring up 44,160 chairside hours. Estimated residents increased from 74 to 114. CONCLUSIONS: Prosthetic demand will surpassing current staffing capacity by 2035. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Urgent action is needed to strengthen prevention, expand prosthodontic training, and align workforce planning with future needs.