Special Edition: Colorado Ruling Every DSO in America Should Be Watching
What happens when a state dental board introduces rules that could fundamentally change how DSOs support dental practices?
In this special breaking-news episode of The Dental Economist Show, host CRO Mike Huffaker of Planet DDS speaks with Andrew Smith, CEO of the Association of Dental Support Organizations (ADSO), and Steve Bilt, Co-Founder and CEO of Smile Brands, about Colorado’s newly adopted dental-board rules and the ADSO’s legal challenge.
The conversation explores the practical effect of restrictions on DSO-held leases and clinical equipment, as well as the potential disciplinary exposure for dentists whose arrangements are deemed noncompliant. Smith and Bilt explain why they believe the rules exceed the dental board’s authority and could create serious financial burdens for dentists already operating under established support arrangements.
They also discuss the wider implications for patient access, affordability, Medicaid participation, clinical autonomy, capital investment, and the future of the DSO model nationwide. With the rules scheduled to take effect in January 2027, the episode examines the legal and legislative paths ahead—and why every DSO operator should be paying attention.
Colorado’s DSO Crackdown
About The Dental Economist Show
Don’t miss insightful conversations with industry experts on the latest trends and top strategies to grow your DSO or dental group. Tune in to The Dental Economist Show each week as we meet at the intersection of profit and purpose.
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