This paper reports on the results of a national survey of retired dentists carried out in the winter and spring of 1984. More than eight in ten of the respondents were general practitioners. Most retirees are between the ages of 60 and 69, married, and report their overall health at retirement to be excellent or good. As do retired scientists, dentists find intrinsic gratification in the work role, but apparently accept retirement as part of the life cycle. Retired dentists have income substantially greater than retirees in general. As is the case for the greater majority of older Americans, Social Security provides an important income support for respondent dentists. However, the primary source of retirement income for dentists comes from savings and investments. One of three retired dentists reports net worth in 1984 as between $200-$499,999. Retired dentists are well adjusted to retirement. Overall, most dentists report high satisfaction with retirement to date. Additional leisure time for hobbies, flexibility in owning one's time, and social activities with family and friends seem the main contributors to this satisfaction. Investment planning, health assessment, enthusiasm for outside interests, and personal preparation for retirement with a spouse are reported as important in retirement planning. Retirement is not a satisfying experience for all dentists. Some do report experiencing uselessness and depression. A still smaller proportion report feelings of loneliness and inadequacy. As is the case for older people in general, solitary activities including reading, watching television, and gardening are important for retired dentists. Most older people attempt to retain activity patterns and preferences developed earlier in life.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

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