Top Trends for DSOs in Spring 2025: Tech, Talent, and Innovation
Innovation in the dental industry is happening quickly, and forward-thinking dental support organizations (DSOs) are doubling down on technology, rethinking financial strategies, investing in leadership, and staying alert to clinical innovations that may define the next decade.
Here’s how DSO leaders are preparing for what’s next by modernizing their operations, improving patient access, and fostering sustainable growth.
Modern Tech Strategies for Growth
From practice management systems to accounts receivable automation, DSOs and dental groups are racing to modernize their infrastructure and improve efficiency at scale.
“One trend among private equity-backed groups is centralizing practice management systems,” said Leslie Soto, VP of operations at Five Point Dental Specialists. “You need to have data at your fingertips. We’re consolidating from seventeen different practice management systems to Denticon and Cloud 9 software.”
With so many DSOs navigating mergers and platform consolidation, implementation is only part of the challenge. Communication is just as critical: “Whenever you introduce new technology, you need to ensure everyone understands why the change is important and how it will make their jobs easier—including the doctors,” Soto added.
Technology is also changing how DSOs document processes and train teams. “Instead of one playbook that’s printed, you might have QR codes to scan that will take you to the most up-to-date user instructions,” Soto explained.
AI, Automation, and the Path to Scale
Josh Gwinn, CEO of Optimize Practice Alliance, sees AI and automation as must-haves for dental groups ready to scale.
“The biggest trend right now is navigating the new world of technology for AI and automation,” Gwinn said. “Bill.com, QuickBooks, Sage, accounting software and more companies are adding automation to accounts receivable workflows. Zentist and other companies have added AI to revenue cycle management (RCM) workflows to automate repetitive tasks. The key for dental groups looking to scale is to implement technology early.”
How people want to receive information has changed: “People aren’t just using Google anymore. They’re using ChatGPT, Perplexity, and other AI tools,” Gwinn said. “AI receptionists are a hot trend, but so far, the public’s response has been lukewarm.”
Evolving Leadership and Mindsets in Dentistry
New talent from outside dentistry is reshaping how DSOs operate—especially in roles focused on operations and patient experience.
“We recently hired a COO from the pharmacy sector,” said Ancy Verdier, DMD, partner at Bedi Dental Group. “It underscores the importance of financial analytics, insurance navigation, customer experience, and operational efficiency in modern dental organizations.”
There’s also a shift happening among clinicians: more dentists are thinking like entrepreneurs.
“I sit on the Board of Trustees at Tufts University, and there’s a growing recognition that dental grads need to be good at business,” said Verdier. “I’m seeing more dentists getting their MBAs.”
New Frontiers in Patient Engagement
At the same time, DSOs are innovating how they reach patients and deliver care. “More practices are advertising the benefits of dental implants and other solutions to drive consumer awareness and consultations,” said Soto. “That’s a shift from relying solely on referrals to more direct-to-consumer marketing.”
Meanwhile, clinical innovation continues to expand possibilities. “I’m particularly excited about advancements in tooth regeneration, with innovations like Curedont paving the way for the future of regenerative dentistry,” said Verdier. “These breakthroughs have the potential to redefine patient care and long-term oral health outcomes.”
Drive Innovation and Growth in 2025
Spring 2025 marks a turning point for DSOs—not only in how they grow, but how they lead. From implementing scalable tech to rethinking consumer engagement, DSO leaders are making strategic moves to create long-term value.
Whether it’s retooling their technology stack, evolving leadership teams, or strengthening their financial models, the most forward-looking groups are focused on creating sustainable success.
Contact Planet DDS to discover how modern technology and smarter strategies can drive lasting success for your DSO.
