Aspen Dental

Aspen Dental is a prominent American dental support organization (DSO) that provides comprehensive business and administrative support services to a vast network of independently owned and operated dental practices branded as "Aspen Dental." Founded in 1998 by Robert Fontana, it has grown to become one of the largest and fastest-growing branded networks of dental offices in the U.S., with over 1,100 locations across 46 states. The core mission of Aspen Dental is to make quality dental care more accessible and affordable for a broad range of patients, particularly those who may face financial or other barriers to treatment or lack a regular dental provider. While individual dental practices are independently owned by licensed dentists, Aspen Dental Management, Inc. (ADMI), now operating under its parent company The Aspen Group (TAG), provides a wide array of non-clinical support services. These services include marketing, scheduling, billing, payroll, IT, and other business-related tasks, allowing dentists to focus primarily on patient care. Aspen Dental offers a full spectrum of dental services, including general dentistry (check-ups, cleanings, fillings, root canals, crowns, bridges), dentures (various types, including full, partial, and implant-supported), dental implants, and orthodontics (including their exclusive Motto® clear aligners). They emphasize convenience with services like same-day appointments and extended hours. Aspen Dental also engages in community initiatives, such as the "Healthy Mouth Movement," providing free dental care to U.S. veterans and underserved populations. The company has a structured pathway for dentists, from associates to managing clinical directors and eventually practice owners, fostering professional growth within their network. Despite its growth and accessibility initiatives, Aspen Dental has faced scrutiny and complaints regarding its business practices, including allegations of incentivizing staff to increase sales of services and products, and concerns about billing and treatment plans. However, they continue to serve millions of patients annually, striving to deliver comprehensive and affordable dental solutions.