Aspen Dental

Aspen Dental is a prominent American dental support organization (DSO) established in 1998 by Bob Fontana. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, its primary function is to provide comprehensive business, administrative, and marketing support services to a vast network of independently owned and operated dental practices that operate under the "Aspen Dental" brand name. This model allows dentists to focus primarily on patient care while Aspen Dental Management, Inc. (ADMI), a subsidiary of The Aspen Group (TAG), handles the operational aspects. Aspen Dental's core mission is to break down barriers to quality dental care, focusing on accessibility, affordability, and transparency. They aim to serve a broad patient base, including individuals who may not have a regular relationship with traditional dentistry practices or face financial hurdles. Many Aspen Dental locations are strategically placed in "dental deserts" – areas with a significant need for dental providers. The services offered at Aspen Dental practices are extensive and include general dentistry (cleanings, fillings, extractions, root canals), cosmetic dentistry (teeth whitening, veneers), and restorative procedures such as dentures and dental implants. A notable feature of Aspen Dental is their on-site dental labs at many locations, which allows for faster creation and fitting of dentures, crowns, and bridges, enhancing patient convenience. Aspen Dental has a strong commitment to making dental care affordable. They offer various financing options, accept most dental insurance plans, and have a "Aspen Dental Savings Plan" for those without insurance. They are also known for their patient-centric approach, offering walk-in appointments for emergencies, and working to alleviate dental anxiety. Beyond their commercial operations, Aspen Dental is dedicated to community outreach through initiatives like the "Healthy Mouth Movement." This program, launched in 2014, provides free dental care to U.S. veterans and underserved individuals through events like annual "Day of Service" programs and the TAG Oral Care Center for Excellence. Aspen Dental has experienced significant growth, with over 1,100 locations across 46 states. In 2021, Aspen Dental Management, Inc. rebranded its parent company to TAG - The Aspen Group, signifying its expansion beyond solely dental services into other healthcare sectors like urgent care and medical aesthetics, while Aspen Dental remains a foundational brand within the group. The company also introduced its own clear aligner product, Motto, in 2021.