Across Canada and beyond, dentistry is shifting. Increasing numbers of practitioners are affiliating with Dental Support Organizations (DSOs) and supported practices. The appeal isn’t just about financial stability—it’s about access to resources, clinical freedom, and stronger infrastructure that supports long-term growth.
At First Dental Studio, we’ve partnered with DSO-supported dentists across Canada. Here’s a breakdown of what’s driving this trend and what to consider if you’re thinking of making the move.
Why Dentists Are Choosing DSOs
Dentists today face growing pressure from both patients and the business side of running a clinic. DSOs offer the operational support to help reduce that pressure—so clinicians can focus more on patient care, not paperwork.
Common benefits include:
- Administrative and HR support
- Group purchasing power
- Access to clinical and leadership training
- Stronger lab, vendor, and peer networks
- Clear career paths without solo practice stress
But not all DSOs are created equal. Knowing what to look for can mean the difference between empowerment and frustration.
1. Look for Ongoing Clinical Education & Team Development
A great DSO doesn’t just handle admin—they help you grow. The strongest affiliations offer ongoing clinical education, mentorship, and leadership training for you and your staff.
This includes:
- Hands-on workshops and case reviews
- CE credits for restorative, implant, and ortho procedures
- Soft-skill development for better patient communication
- Team training to improve efficiency and trust
Before affiliating, ask what types of continuing education are offered—and whether training is available for hygienists, assistants, and admin staff as well.
2. Prioritize Operational Support That Reduces Stress
From insurance claims to scheduling systems, non-clinical demands can take up too much time. DSOs that offer robust operational infrastructure allow you to stay focused on clinical excellence.
Look for DSOs that provide:
- Centralized billing and insurance systems
- Compliance and HR support
- Patient marketing and online presence management
- Help with analytics and KPIs to grow smarter
This type of support doesn’t just help the dentist—it supports the entire team and improves patient flow and satisfaction.
3. Assess Vendor Relationships That Actually Add Value
DSOs often negotiate lower costs for supplies, but the most effective partnerships go beyond pricing.
At First Dental Studio, we see the difference when a DSO:
- Streamlines communication between labs and clinics
- Encourages case planning collaboration
- Aligns clinical teams with lab protocols
- Respects timelines, preferences, and patient outcomes
Our best DSO relationships are built on trust, not just volume. Look for affiliations where vendor partners are seen as part of the patient care team—not just a supplier.
4. Clinical Autonomy Still Matters
One concern many dentists have about DSOs is loss of clinical control. A good DSO allows you to maintain authority over:
- Treatment plans
- Material selection
- Case protocols
- Lab preferences
A lab like ours depends on clear direction from the clinician. That only works when the dentist is empowered to make case-by-case decisions without unnecessary approval chains.
5. Seek Peer Networks and Mentorship
Working within a DSO-supported practice often comes with access to a built-in community of clinicians. This is especially helpful for:
- New graduates looking for mentorship
- Experienced dentists wanting to share knowledge
- Practices hoping to standardize care across locations
Ask about:
- Regional or national study clubs
- Peer mentorship programs
- Clinical leadership tracks for dentists who want to grow
Support doesn’t just come from the head office—it should also come from colleagues walking the same path.
Final Thought: Choose a DSO That Respects the Entire Ecosystem
The best DSO affiliations align dentists, labs, vendors, and support staff around a common goal: better patient outcomes.
At First Dental Studio, we’ve seen first-hand how a supportive DSO relationship:
- Leads to faster lab turnaround
- Reduces remakes through better scan protocols
- Improves the consistency of communication and case quality
- Supports long-term clinician satisfaction
Considering Affiliation? Ask These Questions First:
- Will I maintain control over clinical decisions?
- What education and growth opportunities exist for my team?
- How does the DSO communicate with preferred labs and vendors?
- Does the DSO align with my values and patient care philosophy?
- Will I be part of a supportive professional network?
Whether you’re exploring your first DSO opportunity or comparing models, choose one that enables you to practice on your terms—with support, not interference.
