Aspen Dental

Aspen Dental, officially known as Aspen Dental Management, Inc., is a prominent American dental support organization (DSO) that backs a vast network of Aspen Dental-branded dentistry locations throughout the United States. Founded in 1998, Aspen Dental's headquarters are in Chicago, Illinois. Its unique business model involves providing comprehensive support services, including marketing, operations, and training, to over 1100 independently owned dental offices. This structure allows individual dentists to maintain clinical autonomy while benefiting from the resources and branding of a large organization. Aspen Dental targets individuals who may lack an existing relationship with a dental provider or face financial or other barriers to accessing dental care. Many of their practices are strategically located in "dental deserts," areas with a significant need for dental providers. The services offered at Aspen Dental locations are extensive and aim to address a wide array of oral health needs. These include general dentistry services such as screenings, cleanings, X-rays, fillings, and extractions. Beyond general care, they also provide specialized treatments like crowns, bridges, dentures (with on-site labs for quick turnaround), dental implants, oral surgery (including wisdom teeth removal), and endodontic procedures (root canals). Furthermore, Aspen Dental offers cosmetic dentistry options, including teeth whitening, veneers, and their proprietary Motto® clear aligners for teeth straightening. Aspen Dental is committed to making dental care affordable and accessible. They work with various insurance providers, handle paperwork, and often offer programs like free new-patient exams and X-rays for those without dental insurance. They also provide financing options and a money-back guarantee on dentures. Aspen Dental also runs community initiatives like the "Healthy Mouth Movement," providing free dental care to veterans and underserved populations. While generally receiving positive feedback for accessibility and range of services, like any large network, some locations may have varying patient experiences, and they have faced some past investigations regarding business practices.