Suicide deaths among dentists in the United States

Dentists experience myriad occupational stressors and are known to have an elevated risk of suicide. Previous US studies focused on suicide among White male dentists, and all studies were published before 2000. This study aimed to assess suicide mortality among male and female US dentists, to evaluate methods of suicide, and to examine trends over time.

Data on US dentists who died from 1979 through 2018 were provided by the American Dental Association and matched to the National Death Index. Decedents who died by intentional self-harm were identified, and proportionate mortality ratios (PMRs) indirectly standardized for age, sex, race, and 5-year calendar period with 95% CIs were calculated using the Life Table Analysis System (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health). Suicide methods and trends over time were also analyzed.

Of 21,928 eligible decedent records, 475 (2.2%) deaths were caused by suicide, with PMRs of 2.01 (95% CI, 1.83 to 2.21; P < .001) for male dentists and 2.15 (95% CI, 1.23 to 3.49; P = .009) for female dentists. Firearms were the predominant suicide method for male dentists (61.4%), but female dentists were split between firearms (31.3%) and hangings (31.3%). PMRs for suicide increased steadily for male and female dentists since 1995.

From 1979 through 2018, US male and female dentists exhibited higher suicide mortality than the general population, with a steady increase since 1995.

Dentist suicide prevention resources may be beneficial, particularly addressing occupational stressors. Reducing stigma and enhancing access to mental health services could lessen the risk of suicide for dental care professionals.