ATLANTA, Ga., Jan. 2, 2025 (Globe Newswire) — The dental industry is undergoing major transformation due to changes in patient behavior, increased need for administrative support within the practice, and advances in technology. . Benevis' new report reveals key trends and developments reshaping the future of oral health, focusing on the rise of dental service organizations (DSOs), the integration of artificial intelligence, and improving access to care .
The percentage of dentists affiliated with a DSO has nearly doubled since 2015, according to data from the American Dental Association (ADA) Health Policy Institute (HPI). Continued staffing shortages and complex reimbursement issues are causing dentists to increasingly rely on DSOs like Benevis. A leading dental and orthodontic provider, we are committed to providing quality care to underserved communities and provide critical administrative support to our larger group. A recent survey found that one-third of dentists are looking to hire hygienists and assistants. In the 2024 HPI-ADA survey, 72% of respondents found it very difficult to hire dental assistants, and 46% reported similar challenges for hygienists. With significant career stresses such as workforce shortages and administrative demands affecting 82% of dental professionals, dental professionals need essential support to meet these operational challenges. is requested from the DSO.
“The rise of the DSO model is proven to benefit health care providers and patients, especially in disadvantaged communities, by providing more affordable and accessible dental care with a wider range of insurance network options. ,” said Dr. Jane Wang, DDS, Clinical Regional Director for Benevis. “Strength in numbers allows clinical teams to focus on providing care, building trusted patient relationships throughout the dental practice, and improving patient experiences and outcomes.”
One of the most positive changes is the growing importance of preventive oral health care among U.S. adults. From 2022 to 2023, the percentage of adults seeking preventive dental care improved from 78% to 83%, according to a report from Delta Dental. This trend shows a growing awareness of the role oral health plays in overall well-being.
Overall utilization of oral health services is also well on its way back to pre-COVID-19 levels, indicating improved access. The report highlights that the percentage of children without dental insurance has fallen to 8%, the lowest level in 20 years. Dental visits across the U.S. population have increased significantly, with nearly 45% of Americans seeing a dentist from 2021 to 2022.
Additionally, the dental industry is implementing artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance operational efficiency and patient care. In 2024, Benevis and other dental and healthcare providers began leveraging AI-driven appointment scheduling to streamline patient management. AI technology is expected to play an even greater role in diagnostics, management functions, and even certain dental procedures by 2025. These advances free up time for dental professionals, reduce errors, and improve the patient experience.
With these changes, the dental industry is evolving to meet the demands of today's consumers while adapting to an increasingly complex operating environment. Technological, administrative, and patient-centered innovations are redefining the delivery and use of oral health care and are expected to continue transforming it in the coming years.
To read Benevis' full report on the trends shaping oral health care, go here.
About Benevis
Benevis is a dental care delivery organization focused on providing life-changing oral care and orthodontics to underserved communities. Benevis has a 20-year history of providing the highest quality care to approximately 5 million children and adults through comprehensive care and operational services that expand access to dentistry. Its network spans more than 100 locally branded dental clinics across the United States, providing care to 1.4 million visitors each year. Benevis also advocates for programs and legislation to ensure all families have access to the oral health care they need and deserve. For more information, please visit Benevis.com.
