Aspen Dental

Aspen Dental is an American dental support organization (DSO) that plays a significant role in the dental industry by providing comprehensive business and administrative support to a vast network of independently owned and operated dental practices. These practices operate under the "Aspen Dental" brand across numerous states in the United States. The organization is part of The Aspen Group (TAG), which also supports other healthcare brands like ClearChoice, WellNow, and Chapter. History and Mission: Founded in 1998 by Bob Fontana, Aspen Dental's core mission has been to "break down barriers and bring better care to more people." This mission addresses common challenges patients face in accessing dental care, such as affordability, transparency, and convenience. Over its 25-year history, Aspen Dental has grown significantly, establishing over 1,100 locations nationwide, making it one of the largest groups of branded dental offices in the world. A key driver of their growth has been their innovative Practice Ownership Program (POP), launched in 2004, which empowers dentists to become practice owners with the backing of Aspen Dental's support services. Services Offered: Aspen Dental-supported practices offer a comprehensive range of dental services, catering to diverse patient needs. These services typically include: General Dentistry: Routine exams, cleanings, fillings, and preventive care. Emergency Dental Care: Addressing urgent dental issues like toothaches and extractions. Restorative Dentistry: Crowns, bridges, and root canal treatments. Dentures and Implants: Full and partial dentures, as well as dental implant solutions for missing teeth. Cosmetic Dentistry: Teeth whitening and clear aligners (like Motto, their own brand). Oral Surgery: Including wisdom tooth removal. Periodontal Disease Treatment: Addressing gum health issues. Aspen Dental aims to provide a "one-stop shop" for dental care, ensuring continuity of treatment and minimizing the need for external referrals for various procedures. They also offer flexible payment options and a savings plan to improve affordability. Patient Care Philosophy: The patient care philosophy at Aspen Dental centers on a "patient-first" approach. This involves creating a welcoming, judgment-free environment where patients feel heard and respected. Dentists in Aspen Dental-supported practices are encouraged to listen to patient concerns and develop tailored treatment plans. The organization also emphasizes the adoption of advanced dental technology for enhanced diagnosis and more effective, less invasive treatments. Continuous education and training for their dental teams are also a cornerstone of their commitment to quality care. Accessibility and Locations: Aspen Dental has a broad national presence, with over 1,100 offices in 45 states. This extensive network aims to improve access to dental care for a large population, including underserved communities. Their website provides tools for finding nearby locations and scheduling appointments. They also emphasize digital accessibility, striving to make their website usable for all individuals, including those with disabilities. Community Involvement: A significant aspect of Aspen Dental's commitment is its community involvement, particularly through the "Healthy Mouth Movement." This initiative, launched in 2014, provides free dental care and oral health education to people in need across the United States. A primary focus of this movement is serving military veterans, who often face barriers to accessing dental benefits. Through events like their annual "Day of Service" and the "MouthMobile" (a mobile dental office), Aspen Dental and its affiliated dentists have donated millions of dollars in dental services to veterans and other underserved populations, aiming to alleviate pain and improve overall oral health.