New Hyde Park, N.Y.-based Northwell could continue to add dental services throughout its network as the health system looks to enhance holistic patient care.

Before dental practices and DSOs can see some relief from workforce shortages, they should challenge themselves to do more to make dental hygienists feel satisfied with their careers, according to Aspen Dental’s new vice president of hygiene operations.

Electronic health records and coordinated offices have become critical parts of integrating medical and dental care, according to one healthcare exec. 

Dentists can employ a few practices to prevent and handle dental board complaints throughout their careers. 

One dentist has more questions than answers about what the future will look like in the dental industry. But rather than causing him stress, the unknowns fuel his excitement for change.

Growing DSOs that are not prepared for further expansion could lose out on the consolidation game, according to NextLevel Founder Gary Kadi.

The quality and caliber of individuals leading dentistry, the increased amount of collaboration between medical professionals and the positive impact of consolidation are all reasons for excitement for five dental leaders.

The evolution of dental technology and AI has been a major talking point in the industry, causing optimism and excitement about the direction of dentistry.

The dental workforce (or lack thereof) was a consistent issue in dentistry throughout 2023, with there being a shortage of dentists, dental hygienists and dental assistants.

The increased adoption of medical loss ratio in the dental industry will have a major impact on dental insurance companies, DSOs and patients in 2024, according to two DSO executives.

Oral hygiene advice given to patients must be updated to improve dental literacy, according to Steven Edwards, DDS.

Many dentists are following the introduction and implementation of new technologies in the industry.

Boca Raton, Fla.-based Sage Dental has started off 2024 with a pair of acquisitions, building on last year's expansion success, when they surpassed 100 total practices.

While new pieces of dental technology have been introduced in recent years to enhance patient care, improve communication and ease administrative burdens, teledentistry is standing out as a way to increase accessibility. 

More dental practice consolidation, dentist seeking autonomy in DSO partnerships, and the integration of medical and dental providers: These are the trends dental professionals expect to see this year. 

Understanding business practices, attracting patients and expanding services are just some of the ways dental practices can increase profitability this year, according to Barry Lyon, DDS.

Technology and AI are becoming more prevalent in the dental industry, which some leaders see as good, while others are not as sure.

Despite many execs expecting economic challenges to slow DSO activity, Rock Dental Brands is remaining flexible and committed to its expansion goals.

Hiring has become more competitive in the oral surgery field as more DSOs enter the market, according to Jason Auerbach, DDS.

Increased use of artificial intelligence and patient education could lead to a greater focus on preventive care in the dental industry this year, according to Steven Edwards, DDS.