A recent report from Benevis, an Atlanta-based dental support organization (DSO), outlines five major trends reshaping the oral healthcare industry into the new year. These trends—ranging from the rise of DSOs to the growing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and improved access to care—present opportunities and challenges for all dental professionals. Let’s recap.
1. The Rise of DSOs: A New Era in Practice Management
The report highlights the increasing prevalence of DSOs as a significant trend in the industry. More dentists are choosing to affiliate with DSOs due to ongoing staffing shortages and reimbursement challenges. DSOs offer administrative support, including billing, marketing, and human resources, allowing dentists to focus on clinical care.
For independent practitioners, this trend raises questions about the future of solo practices. While DSOs can provide stability and operational efficiency, they also introduce new dynamics, such as centralized decision-making and performance metrics. Dental professionals considering joining a DSO should weigh the benefits of reduced administrative burden against potential limitations on autonomy.
2. AI in Dentistry: From Vision to Reality
Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s becoming an integral part of dental practice (and indeed all industries). In 2024, AI began to streamline patient management, with applications in appointment scheduling, insurance verification, and predictive analytics. By 2025, the report projects AI will play a larger role in clinical functions, including diagnosis and treatment planning.
For example, AI-powered imaging tools can enhance the accuracy of caries detection and periodontal assessments, while machine learning algorithms can analyze patient data to predict risk factors for oral diseases. Dentists adopting AI technology should prioritize training to ensure they fully leverage its capabilities while still maintaining a high standard of care.
3. Preventive Care Gains Ground
The report notes a positive trend in the increasing percentage of U.S. adults seeking preventive dental care, reflecting growing awareness of the link between oral health and overall health. From 2022 to 2023, more patients recognized the importance of regular check-ups, cleanings, and screenings.
This shift underscores the need for dental professionals to emphasize patient education. By highlighting the systemic connections between oral health and conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease, dentists can encourage patients to prioritize preventive care. Additionally, this trend may drive demand for technologies like salivary diagnostics, which offer non-invasive methods for early disease detection.
4. Post-COVID Rebound in Dental Services
The utilization of dental services has rebounded significantly since the disruptions caused by COVID-19. Many patients who delayed care during the pandemic are now returning, creating opportunities for practices to rebuild their patient base and address deferred treatment needs.
However, this rebound also presents challenges. Practices may experience a surge in demand, requiring adjustments in scheduling, staffing, and inventory management. Dental professionals should still focus on maintaining high standards of infection control while streamlining workflows to accommodate the increased patient volume.
5. The Expanding Role of AI in 2025 and Beyond
Benevis predicts that by 2025, AI will be deeply integrated into dental practice, extending beyond administrative tasks to play a pivotal role in diagnostics and treatment. AI-driven tools can analyze radiographs, detect abnormalities, and even suggest treatment plans, potentially improving accuracy and efficiency.
For dentists, this presents an opportunity to enhance patient outcomes while reducing cognitive load. However, it also raises ethical and practical considerations, such as the importance of maintaining the human element in patient care and ensuring data security. Staying informed about AI developments and choosing reputable vendors will be critical.
Key Takeaways
The Benevis report offers valuable insights into the future of dentistry, highlighting trends that dental professionals must embrace to stay competitive. While the rise of DSOs and AI integration may seem disruptive, they also offer opportunities for innovation and growth. Here are some actionable steps for dental professionals:
- Evaluate Practice Models: Whether you’re an independent dentist or part of a group practice, assess whether affiliating with a DSO aligns with your career goals.
- Invest in Technology: Explore AI tools that can enhance diagnostics, patient communication, and administrative efficiency. Ensure your team is trained to use these tools effectively.
- Prioritize Patient Education: Leverage the growing interest in preventive care by providing resources and personalized advice to patients.
- Prepare for Increased Demand: Develop strategies to manage the post-pandemic surge in patient visits while maintaining high-quality care.
- Stay Informed: The rapid pace of change in dentistry underscores the importance of continuous education. Stay updated on industry trends, attend conferences, and engage in peer discussions.
The oral healthcare industry is evolving at an unprecedented pace. This new report serves as a roadmap for dental professionals to navigate these changes for 2025 and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
SOURCE: Benevis
