Aspen Dental

Aspen Dental is a large American Dental support organization (DSO) that manages a network of over 1,100 independently owned and operated dental practices across the country. The brand was founded in 1998 by Bob Fontana with the goal of breaking down barriers that prevent people from receiving dental care, such as affordability and access. The organization's parent company is The Aspen Group (TAG), which also supports other healthcare brands. The business model of Aspen Dental is based on a franchise-like structure where individual dentists own and operate their own practices while receiving comprehensive non-clinical support from the parent organization. This support includes administrative tasks, advertising, marketing, human resources, and procurement of equipment and supplies. By handling these operational aspects, Aspen Dental allows its affiliated dentists to focus on providing clinical care to patients. This model also allows them to offer a wide range of services under one roof, with many locations providing general dentistry, cosmetic procedures, dentures, dental implants, and emergency care. The organization also offers a "Practice Ownership Program" which provides a clear path for dentists to become practice owners. Aspen Dental is known for its focus on accessibility and affordability. Many of its clinics are located in areas with a high need for dental providers. The company also offers flexible payment solutions, accepts various insurance plans, and has an in-house dental savings plan to help patients manage costs. Through initiatives like the "Healthy Mouth Movement" and the TAG Oral Care Center for Excellence, Aspen Dental provides free dental care to underserved communities and veterans. These efforts align with the brand's overarching mission to make quality dental care available to more people.