Aspen Dental

Aspen Dental is a prominent American dental support organization (DSO) that facilitates and supports a vast network of independently owned and operated dental practices across the United States. Founded in 1998 by Bob Fontana, the organization's core mission is to "break down barriers and bring better care to more people" by focusing on accessibility, affordability, and transparent dental services. Business Model and Structure: Aspen Dental Management, Inc. (ADMI), now part of The Aspen Group (TAG), provides comprehensive business and administrative support services to these independently owned practices. This includes marketing, operations, training, human resources, and procurement, allowing dentists to focus primarily on patient care. While the practices carry the "Aspen Dental" brand, each is owned and operated by a licensed dentist, ensuring clinical autonomy. Services Offered: Aspen Dental-branded practices offer a wide range of dental services, catering to diverse patient needs. These services typically include: General Dentistry: Routine check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and preventive care. Restorative Dentistry: Crowns, bridges, and tooth extractions. Cosmetic Dentistry: Teeth whitening and veneers. Dentures and Dental Implants: A significant focus, with various options and affordability plans. Oral Surgery: Including wisdom tooth removal. Orthodontics: Such as clear aligners (e.g., Motto). Accessibility and Affordability: A key differentiator for Aspen Dental is its commitment to making dental care more accessible. Many of their locations are strategically placed in "dental deserts" or areas with a high need for dental providers. They aim to address financial barriers by offering various payment options, including in-house dental savings plans, third-party financing, and working with insurance providers. They also frequently run promotions and offer warranties on services like dentures. Growth and Reach: Over two decades, Aspen Dental has grown significantly, expanding to over 1,100 locations in 45 states. They are known for their rapid expansion, often opening new offices regularly. This growth is fueled in part by their "Practice Ownership Program" (POP), launched in 2004, which empowers dentists to become practice owners with the support of Aspen Dental's business infrastructure. Social Impact and Community Involvement: Aspen Dental is also involved in various community initiatives, notably the "Healthy Mouth Movement" and the "Day of Service," which provides free dental care to U.S. veterans and underserved populations. They also have the TAG Oral Care Center for Excellence, offering free treatment and training facilities. Parent Company: Aspen Dental is a key brand under The Aspen Group (TAG), a larger healthcare support organization that has expanded beyond dentistry to include other healthcare services like urgent care (WellNow), dental implants (ClearChoice), and medical aesthetics (Chapter). This broader structure allows for integrated healthcare solutions and continued growth.