Dental employers with more to offer beyond high compensation are more likely to recruit staff, making talent acquisition easier for DSOs over private practices, according to one executive.
Barry Lyon, DDS, director of provider recruiting and onboarding at Dental Care Alliance, recently spoke with Becker’s about the factors leading to successful recruiting among DSOs.
Editor’s note: This Q&A is part of a weekly series featuring Dr. Lyon focused on topics in the dental industry and DSO field. The views expressed are those of Dr. Lyon and do not necessarily reflect those of Dental Care Alliance.
This response was lightly edited for clarity and length.
Dr. Barry Lyon:
DSOs have become a force in dental recruiting. What was once viewed as an alternative career path is now a mainstream option for graduating dentists, particularly those seeking mentorship, financial stability and relief from the administrative burdens of practice ownership. According to the American Dental Education Association, 34% of dental school seniors who planned to enter private practice immediately after graduation in 2023 intended to join a DSO-affiliated practice, more than double the percentage reported five years earlier. This is a reflection of the positive reputation DSOs have obtained.
With the debt accumulated over four years of undergraduate education, graduates are looking for opportunities that provide immediate patient flow, predictable income and structured clinical support. Add to that a newly obtainable work-life balance, and the attraction of a DSO is apparent. The American Dental Association’s Health Policy Institute has found that DSO affiliations continue to grow, particularly among early-career dentists. In 2024, more than one in four dentists within 10 years of graduation were affiliated with a DSO, a rate significantly higher than that of older dentists.
Where private practices are at a clear disadvantage is their inability to keep pace with a DSO’s sophisticated recruiting methods. DSOs are using increased face-to-face contact, sophisticated analytics and artificial intelligence to find, court and hire dental graduates. Private practices that continue to market positions primarily on compensation or location may find themselves at a disadvantage against organizations that offer structured onboarding, continuing education and defined career pathways.
For dental students, the decision between a DSO and private practice is becoming less about organizational structure and more about professional growth. The employers that demonstrate a commitment to mentorship, clinical excellence and career advancement will likely win the competition for talent.
At the Becker's 5th Annual Future of Dentistry Roundtable, taking place September 14-15 in Chicago, dental leaders and executives will gain insights into emerging technologies, practice growth strategies and the evolving landscape of dental care delivery, with a focus on innovation, patient experience and operational excellence. Apply for complimentary registration now.