Aspen Dental

Aspen Dental is a prominent American dental support organization (DSO) established in 1998, with its roots tracing back to East Coast Dental and Upstate Dental founded by Robert Fontana. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Aspen Dental operates by providing extensive non-clinical business and administrative support services to a vast network of independently owned and operated dental practices across the United States. This model allows dentists to focus primarily on patient care while Aspen Dental handles aspects such as marketing, human resources, payroll, regulatory compliance, procurement, real estate management, and patient interface platforms. The core mission of Aspen Dental is to enhance access to quality dental care for more Americans, particularly those who may face barriers like affordability issues or lack of existing dental relationships. They aim to make dental care convenient and affordable, offering various payment options, including an Aspen Dental Savings Plan and third-party financing. Aspen Dental-branded practices offer a comprehensive range of dental services, including general dentistry (check-ups, cleanings, fillings, extractions), cosmetic dentistry (teeth whitening, veneers), restorative dentistry (crowns, bridges), and specialized procedures such as dentures (with on-site labs for faster service and a money-back guarantee) and dental implants. They also feature their own clear aligner product, Motto®. Many Aspen Dental locations are strategically placed in areas identified as "dental deserts" to serve underserved communities. A key aspect of Aspen Dental's business model is its "Practice Ownership Program" (POP), launched in 2004. This program provides a structured pathway for dentists to become practice owners, fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among clinicians. Dentists can start as associates, progress to Managing Clinical Directors (MCDs), and eventually own their practices with the ongoing support of Aspen Dental. This model is designed to empower dentists while ensuring consistent standards of care across the branded network. In 2021, Aspen Dental Management, Inc. rebranded its parent company to TAG – The Aspen Group, signifying its expansion beyond dental care into a broader healthcare platform that includes ClearChoice Dental Implant Centers, WellNow Urgent Care, Chapter Aesthetic Studio, and Lovet Pet Health Care. This expansion reinforces their overarching goal of bringing better healthcare to more people and pets. Aspen Dental emphasizes a patient-centric approach, striving to provide a comfortable and transparent experience. They aim to alleviate patient anxieties, offer clear pricing, and ensure accessibility through walk-in appointments for emergencies and flexible scheduling. The company also engages in significant community outreach through initiatives like the "Healthy Mouth Movement," providing free dental care to veterans and underserved individuals.