Several DSOs have recently launched initiatives and hired execs dedicated to supporting dental assistants and hygienists as workforce shortages continue to challenge the industry.

Salt Lake City-based SPP Dental Partners recently added its first Idaho dental office.

Irving, Texas-based Specialized Dental Partners expanded its networks in Ohio and Texas, according to recent posts on its LinkedIn Page.

Here are four dental groups and organizations that have entered new states that Becker's has reported on since Feb. 2:

Here are 21 updates on six of the largest DSOs in the U.S., including Heartland Dental, Pacific Dental Services and Dental Care Alliance:

Irvine, Calif.-based Pacific Dental Services has stayed dedicated to boosting support for dental assistants and advancing medical-dental integration. 

Affordable Dentures & Implants, a dental brand supported by Morrisville, N.C.-based Affordable Care, expanded its network.

Irving, Texas-based Specialized Dental Partners recently added Northeast Endodontics to its network.

Sarasota, Fla.-based Dental Care Alliance added its first practice in New Hampshire, marking the 24th state in which the company supports locations.

Scottsdale, Ariz.-based Imagen Dental Partners added a Georgia practice to expand its network. 

The law firm of Federman & Sherwood initiated an investigation into Chicago-based Aspen Dental Management on their recent data breach, according to a March 5 news release. 

Nashville, Tenn.-based Endodontic Practice Partners added a Michigan practice to its network.

Danbury, Conn.-based Archway Dental Partners recently acquired New Britain (Conn.) Dental Arts.

Western Dental and Orthodontics, a brand of Sonrava Health, opened a practice location in Reseda, Calif.

Irvine, Calif.-based Pacific Dental Services is joining the American Dental Assistants Association in celebrating Dental Assistants Recognition Week, which takes place from March 3 to 9. 

There are several trends this year that could have either positive or negative effects on DSO activity and consolidation. 

DSOs and dental organizations had an active February in California, Florida and New York, announcing several practice additions and openings.

Irvine, Calif.-based Pacific Dental Services is one of the three largest DSOs in the U.S., supporting nearly 1,000 practice locations. 

Morrisville, N.C.-based Affordable Care opened an Affordable Dentures & Implants location in California.

Here are six executives who are leading key players in the DSO field and supporting notable initiatives in the dental industry: