Dental school enrollments and the supply and demand of dentists in the United States and the south are examined. The growth in the supply of dentists in the South is related to an improved economy in this region and a rapid population increase. In addition to producing a large number of dental school graduates, the South is attracting graduates of schools outside the South. A reduced demand for dental services is linked to improved oral hygiene, the wide use of flourides, and the fact that dental care is often deferred because dental expenses usually are paid by the consumer. Between 1980 and 1984, first-year dental school enrollments declined 16.3 percent in the United States and 20.3 percent in the South. The number of applicants has decreased from 14,807 in 1975-1976 to 6,200 for 1985-1986. In 1976, dental schools accepted only 40 percent of applicants, while 77 percent were accepted in 1984. Reasons for declining application rates include: rapid increases in dental school costs; high debt among dental school graduates; and reduced earning potential in dentistry. Since dental school enrollments are likely to continue to decline, options that might be helpful to states with public dental schools are identified. Data on 1980-1984 first-year and total dental school enrollments in 14 southern states and the United States are included, along with data on cost-per-student. (SW)