While several dentists predict a continued decline in solo dentistry, some say the industry could switch away from DSOs and group practices in the future as people realize the benefits of a solo practice.
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A decline in the number of solo dentists could have both positive and negative effects on the industry, according to Huzefa Kapadia, DDS.
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The number of solo dentists could continue to decline as the pressures that come with owning a practice grow, according to Frank Clayton, DDS.
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There are many concerns dentists have that could prevent them from affiliating with a DSO, including fears of losing autonomy and staff, according to Barry Lyon, DDS.
DSOs and other management services organizations could start to merge as economic challenges continue into 2024, according to Richard Hall, CEO of Irving, Texas-based U.S. Oral Surgery Management.
While technology innovations are having a positive impact on the dental industry, some dentists feel that DSO influence could have the opposite effect in the future.
Patient outcomes can continue to improve as medical-dental integration and preventive measures continue to advance, according to Saam Zarrabi, DDS.
Increasing costs in dentistry can hurt accessibility as dental practices and DSOs find it difficult to hire more staff, according to Saam Zarrabi, DDS.