The objective of this study includes a determination of the need for additional dental service and an examination of the dental service delivery system in the state of Ohio. Recognizing that the question of dental manpower and the service it delivers is but one facet of the area of oral health maintenance, and that manpower needs are affected by other factors, the study investigated the following areas: (1) the need for dentists and dental auxiliary personnel in Ohio; (2) the distribution of such personnel in Ohio; (3) the changing role of auxiliary dental personnel; (4) the potential effect of third-party reimbursement upon dental services; (5) national trends in dental manpower and their overall effect on Ohio; and (6) other factors affecting the availability and utilization of dental care. (Author/JMF)