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Women in Dentistry: The American Association of Women Dentists Sheri B. Doniger, DDS

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The American Association of Women Dentists has been serving female dentists for 94 years. Our mission statement describes the AAWD as, "The leading resource for advancing, connecting and enriching the lives of women dentists." We have had several roles over the years as the needs of women in dentistry have evolved. Our role, as an organization, is to offer mentorship, leadership training and opportunities for female dentists.

Many of the women who came before me were the only women in their class. That has certainly changed, but women still have many of the unique needs today that they had decades ago.

They tend to balance many different roles: practitioner, wife, mother, sister, caregiver, friend. They also handle multitasking quite well.

The vista of dentistry has changed over the past 30 years since I was in dental school and I must say: it is a wonderful time to be a woman in dentistry. Since my graduation in 1983, women are on the road to being equity partners in this profession. My dental school class had 29 women out of a class of 151 graduates, roughly 19 percent. Fast forward to 2015 to see a completely different class composition, with more than 50 percent of the pre-doctoral candidates now comprised of women. Looking over just the past 20 years, the percentage of women in dentistry has increased by more than 210 percent.

Thirty years ago, women in dental school used the same equipment as the men. Once we graduated and entered into practice, there were few options with regard to a different hand size or body shape. Female dentists are often more concerned with practice longevity and comfort regarding product and equipment design. Now, some forward-thinking manufacturers are assessing different ergonomic needs by offering alternative options for handpieces, seating and instruments.

Women no longer have to enter into a "one size fits all" for capital purchases, office design or style; we now have options. Moreover, we know that women represent the largest purchasing market. Hence, even though many manufacturers continue to market mainly to men, those who focus on women will be in a strategic place for success. AAWD is poised to be the resource for the ergonomic revolution in dental equipment as our practice shifts to more female practitioners. There's a long way to go, but there are currently great products available. In my opinion, Crown Seating is one of the stand outs in ergonomic seating solutions. I have been using their dental stools for years. A-dec is also outstanding in dental units and chairs. DentalEz has great handpieces that are made of titanium, which makes them lightweight. HuFriedy creates fantastic balanced instruments. DUX Dental has a lead-free shield that weighs less than three pounds, and both DentalEz and A-dec have light-weight, easily maneuverable LED lights. I love working with all of these products in my office every day and I look forward to the development of new products that keep women in mind.

When I started my practice it was impossible to acquire a business loan without the guarantee of my parents and my husband. Banks would not look at me even though I was a doctor with a potential long-term business and earning power. Now many more banks are willing, and even competing, to give money to female dentists. They finally see that we are a good, stable investment. We repay our loans. Interestingly, although dental school indebtedness is always high, women are trending toward slightly lower financial obligations at the end of school.

Regarding leadership of dental organizations, we see a vast majority of men, but women are definitely on the rise. We are attempting to gain the same leadership roles our male counterparts have had for decades. It takes drive and perseverance to break through the glass ceiling. Women are increasing their representation in national, state and local leadership as well as at the dean level.

This is a great time to be a woman in dentistry. I have never regretted my decision. I mentor many young women to consider this profession. We are integral in health care. Many of us have a strong focus on prevention and in this way we are on the forefront of dentistry. If you would like more information, or would care to join, please visit Aawd.org. Thank you for celebrating women in dentistry this month, and in all months.


Dr. Sheri Doniger is president of the American Association of Women Dentists. Her mission is to work within the industry to create ergonomic solutions for female practitioners, as well as enhance collaboration between dentists and physicians for the good of the patient. In addition to practicing dentistry, Sheri Doniger, DDS, is a leading dental author, educator, public speaker and consultant.
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