Detailed Introduction
Aspen Dental, officially known as Aspen Dental Management, Inc., is a prominent dental support organization (DSO) that provides business and administrative support services to a large network of independently owned and operated Aspen Dental-branded dental practices across the United States. Founded in 1998, their mission is to make quality dental care accessible to more people, particularly those who may face financial or other barriers to treatment.
Each Aspen Dental office is independently owned by a licensed dentist who maintains clinical autonomy, meaning they make independent clinical decisions for their patients. The DSO model allows dentists to focus on patient care while Aspen Dental Management, Inc. handles the non-clinical aspects of running a practice, such as marketing, human resources, payroll, real estate management, and procurement of supplies.
Aspen Dental offers a comprehensive range of dental services, including general dentistry, preventative care, cosmetic dentistry, dentures (with on-site labs for faster service), dental implants, extractions, fillings, oral surgery, clear aligners (Motto® Clear Aligners), and crown and bridge work. They emphasize patient education and transparency, often utilizing advanced dental technology like digital X-rays, panoramic X-rays, dental lasers, and intraoral scanners to aid in diagnosis and treatment planning.
A key aspect of Aspen Dental's approach is addressing patient concerns regarding affordability and access. They work with various insurance providers, assist with paperwork, and offer flexible payment solutions, including their own Aspen Dental Savings Plan, which provides discounts on services. Many locations also offer free new-patient exams and X-rays for those without dental insurance. They strive for convenient hours, including evenings and select Saturdays, and welcome walk-in and emergency patients.
The company has grown significantly since its inception, with hundreds of locations nationwide. They are part of The Aspen Group (TAG), which has expanded beyond dental care to include urgent care, medical aesthetics, and veterinary care, all with the overarching vision to bring better healthcare to more people. Aspen Dental has also engaged in community initiatives, such as the Healthy Mouth Movement, offering free dental care to veterans and those in need.