The Steady Rise of Dental Service Organizations
Dental Service Organizations (DSOs) and larger group practices are reshaping the dental industry. According to the Health Policy Institute (HPI) at the American Dental Association (ADA), the percentage of DSO-affiliated dentists nearly doubled from 7.4% in 2015 to 13.8% by 2023. This growth spans all dental specialties, with younger dentists leading the trend: 27% of dentists who graduated within the last five years and 18% of those who graduated six to ten years ago are now affiliated with DSOs.
Increasing Practice Management Pressures Felt by Dentists
A 2024 ADA Trend Report highlights the mounting pressures faced by dentists. Insurance reimbursement challenges, labor shortages, clinical demands, and evolving patient attitudes contribute to significant career stress—affecting 82% of dental professionals surveyed. Among these issues, insurance reimbursement rates and staffing shortages are the most pressing pain points. Currently, about one-third of dentists are actively recruiting hygienists and dental assistants. The same report notes that nearly 72% of respondents find it extremely difficult to hire hygienists, while 46% face similar struggles with recruiting dental assistants. With many practices understaffed since the pandemic, 30% of dentists have taken on additional hygiene procedures to meet patient needs.
Given these operational pressures, many dentists are turning to DSOs and group practices for support. DSOs provide administrative resources, allowing dentists to focus on patient care rather than practice management. The trend toward consolidation is likely to persist as dentists look for solutions to help navigate these ongoing challenges.
Positive Shifts in Oral Health Awareness
Despite workforce challenges and reimbursement issues, consumer attitudes toward oral health are evolving positively. Between 2022 and 2023, the percentage of U.S. adults seeking preventive dental care rose from 78% to 83%. A Delta Dental report indicates a growing motivation for preventive care—a trend that holds promise for continued improvement in oral health.
Other encouraging developments include better access to dental care. In 2022, 8% of children lacked dental insurance—the lowest rate since 2002. Additionally, the percentage of Americans visiting a dentist increased to 45% across all demographics between 2021 and 2022, with most oral health services returning to pre-pandemic levels.
Persistent Financial Barriers to Dental Care
Unfortunately, financial barriers remain a significant obstacle to oral health. In 2023, 13% of Americans cited cost as a barrier to dental care—much higher than the 4% to 5% reporting cost issues for other healthcare services. According to the ADA, cost was the top reason 36% of respondents had not visited a dentist in two years. Lower-income individuals face even greater hurdles, underscoring the need for more accessible and affordable dental care solutions.
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Dentistry
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming dental care in remarkable ways. In 2024, AI technologies are streamlining practice management, enhancing diagnostic capabilities, and even assisting in dental procedures. By automating tasks such as scheduling, reminders, and follow-ups, AI reduces human error and allows dental professionals to focus on patient care. Dental healthcare providers like Benevis are leveraging AI to improve efficiency and enhance the patient experience.
Technology also influences consumer decisions. According to the 2024 ADA Trend Report, 73% of consumers trust Google when choosing a dentist, and 59% consider online reviews critical to their decision-making process.
Advancing Equity and Access to Oral Care
Looking ahead, ensuring equitable access to dental care remains a priority. Dental practices can enhance patient accessibility by adjusting office hours, improving transportation proximity, and adopting patient-centered scheduling. Dr. Jane Whang, Regional Director of Clinical at Benevis, emphasizes that these operational improvements can drive both practice growth and better population health outcomes.
Legislative Progress for Dental Reform
For the first time in a decade, significant legislative action is addressing dental care reform. In 2024, the Comprehensive Dental Care Reform Act passed Congress, aiming to improve dental care access nationwide. Key provisions include Medicaid’s Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) guidance, ensuring preventive and diagnostic services for children and youth. Additionally, a coalition of dental organizations is advocating for increased funding in 2025 to support dental infrastructure, workforce diversity, education, and research.
A Future of Transformation
The dental healthcare landscape is poised for continued transformation. Evolving practice models, emerging technologies, legislative advancements, and shifting consumer expectations will continue to shape the future of oral health. By staying informed and adaptive, dental professionals and healthcare leaders can navigate these changes and provide the highest level of care for their patients.
To learn more, download Benevis’ report on Trends Shaping Oral Healthcare here.
