There are a few things that can be done to help new dental graduates start their careers on a positive note, according to Barry Lyon, DDS. 

With dental artificial intelligence programs becoming increasingly mainstream in the industry, it is important for dentists, dental practices and DSOs to know the whys and hows of dental AI. 

Some of the challenges with private equity investments in healthcare could be having a negative impact on deals in the DSO field, according to Brian Hamilton, the managing director at DuneGlass Capital and chief development officer at Southlake, Texas-based Allied OMS.

With higher inflation, interest rates and cost of capital causing a slow down in dentistry in the first half of 2024, there is a light at the end of the tunnel for one CEO. 

Jonesboro, Ark.-based GPS Dental is setting itself apart from competitors by focusing on adding personalized value to its partner practices, a method that has proven successful as the DSO nears 100 offices.

While not every DSO has a chief engagement officer, the position can help bridge the gap between the clinical and business aspects of dentistry for dentists new to DSOs.

Heartland Dental has a busy agenda for the rest of 2024 to continue its success as the largest DSO in the U.S. 

Florham Park, N.J.-based Select Dental Management has ensured the success of its network in a challenging economy by focusing on new technology, staffing and patient care.

From digital X-rays to saliva diagnostics, Henderson, Nev.-based PDS Health has always tried to stay one step ahead when it comes to dental technology.

Staffing shortages, especially when it comes to dental hygienists and dental assistants, have been an ongoing problem for the dental industry with no concrete solution. 

This month, several dental industry leaders spoke with Becker's about the most pressing issues and trends in the field, including artificial intelligence, staffing shortages and inflation. 

While several strides have been made to improve access to care for pediatric dental patients, demand is expected to continue for providers in this field, according to Barry Lyon, DDS. 

Some of the top factors keeping dentistry from progressing include high costs, workforce shortages and limited reimbursements, according to one dentist. 

Artificial intelligence has allowed one DSO to enhance the patient experience and increase treatment acceptance. 

Heartland Dental knows the value of investing in development and has always provided supported doctors, their teams, and business and office professionals with continuing education opportunities. For over 25 years, we have recognized education’s crucial role in supported doctor satisfaction and in fostering the success of supported doctors and their teams in delivering exceptional patient care.

Many dentists agree that financial constraints and staffing challenges are keeping the dental industry from growing and progressing further. 

As a newly minted dentist, transitioning from being in school to working at a practice can be intimidating. In addition to the clinical challenges of caring for patients with a variety of dental needs, you’re also navigating the ins and outs of a real office. You may have had leadership experiences in dental school, but those don’t necessarily translate to a busy office.

Challenging, competitive and growing are just some of the ways dentists and dental leaders are describing the current state of affairs in dentistry.

Whether to join a DSO or MSO is one of the most important decisions dentists will be faced with during their career, especially as consolidation increases in the industry. 

As the dental industry deals with ongoing workforce shortages exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, many are looking for solutions to alleviate these challenges.