Here are six updates from 2026 that have led to optimism and skepticism in the dental industry:
Good news
DSO investments
Several DSOs have landed investments this year to support debt restructuring and network growth. Lone Peak Dental Group recently received a $15 million mezzanine debt investment from o15 Capital Partners, an alternative investment firm, while Dental Care Alliance entered an agreement with its existing lender group to reduce its debt by more than $1.1 billion and receive $95 million in new capital.
Oral-systemic link
More than 90% of adults in the U.S. agree that oral health is an important aspect of overall health, according to a new report from the Delta Dental Plans Association. Adults part of Gen Z are driving the increase, with 94% of Gen Z respondents believing that oral health is very or extremely important to their overall health, up from 89% in 2025.
Dental spending
Consumer dental spending rose 0.4% between December and January. It was also 4% higher compared to 12 months prior and 11% higher than pre-pandemic levels, according to a new report from the American Dental Association. Dental spending has increased by 24% over the last 10 years.
Bad news
Cybersecurity
Becker’s has reported on more than a dozen data breaches in dentistry so far this year. These events have affected a variety of companies, including practices, DSOs and dental benefit administrators. Most recently, a cybersecurity incident at Stafford (Va.) Oral Surgery affected 7,019 individuals. DentaQuest was also managing a breach earlier this month that led to the exposure of more than 2.6 million accounts.
Medicaid funding
Medicaid cuts could reverse progress that has been made to expand access to dental care in the U.S., healthcare leaders have warned. KFF recently estimated the amount of Medicaid funding cuts each state could be hit with over the next 10 years, with many states being estimated to lose billions of dollars in funding.
Dental assistant shortage
Dentalpost’s 2026 Dental Salary Survey Report pointed to potential challenges with recruiting and retaining dental assistants, showing that improvements in compensation, culture and workload are needed for stable retention. According to the report, dental assistants are the likeliest dental professionals to be seeking new opportunities, with 47% considering changing jobs within the next two years. Among those considering changing jobs, 84% cite higher pay as a primary motivation, followed by better benefits and seeking a more appreciative employer. Only 54% of dental assistants said they are “satisfied” or “very satisfied” with their current work, compared to 57% last year.
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.