An increasing number of dental graduates are choosing to join a DSO-affiliated practice due to the economic benefits and career growth opportunities.
Barry Lyon, DDS, the dental director for Main Street Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics and the chief clinical auditor for Dental Care Alliance, connected with Becker’s to discuss the migration of dentists toward 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 Main Street Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics or Dental Care Alliance.
This response was lightly edited for clarity and length.
Dr. Barry Lyon:
Dental students generally begin their job searches while in their final year of school, about nine to 12 months before graduation. For those not continuing their education, the decisions to be made are whether to open a practice, join an existing private practice or work for a DSO. Student debt and the uncertain state of the U.S. economy often immediately rule out opening their own practice. Historically, the percentage of dental students owning dental practices early in their careers has decreased significantly. Sixty to 70% of dentists graduating before 2010 owned a practice early in their careers, while only 21% of dentists graduating between 2016 and 2020 did the same, according to data from the American Dental Association.
Approximately 34% of dental students who plan to enter private practice immediately after graduation intend to join a DSO-affiliated practice. This represents a significant increase from 2018, when only 16% of students chose to join a DSO.
Clearly, graduating dentists have learned working for a DSO has distinct advantages, while DSOs have done a tremendous job creating the appeal necessary to attract and retain graduating dentists and specialists. The proof is in the pudding, with doctor retention rates at some DSOs as high as 98%.
Allowing doctors the ability to acquire equity positions within a DSO creates the best of both worlds. Doctors fulfill their dream of ownership while receiving the support and mentorship they desire.
