DSO Leaders Explore Key Technologies for 2025
As dental service organizations (DSOs) prepare for 2025, technology has become integral in driving efficiency, enhancing the patient experience, and simplifying complex workflows. To explore these advancements, we asked industry leaders to share their insights on the technologies they consider essential for the future. Their recommendations highlight solutions that address pain points and create a smoother, more scalable operational model for DSOs.
5 Essential DSO Technologies for 2025
Technological innovation continues to shape how DSOs grow and operate. The following technologies, offered by industry leaders, pave the way for smarter and more efficient dental practice management solutions:
1. Cloud-based practice management systems
Standardizing dental practice management systems is a top priority for many DSOs in 2025. Andrew Jones, COO of Imagen Dental Partners, explained, “Currently, we have eight different practice management systems, and it’s a burden on our team to pull data. In 2025, we’re consolidating into one PMS, Denticon, so we can standardize and scale. We want to have a cloud-based system so we can have visibility and access to data, and to help our teams so they can save time.”
Leslie Soto, VP of operations at Five Point Dental Specialists, added, “The biggest initiative is we’re changing practice management systems. We’re moving from having seventeen different practice management systems to having Cloud 9 and Denticon next year. We’re focused on streamlining office workflows. By consolidating everything into one platform, managers, and staff will be able to access all the information they need in one place, creating greater efficiencies across teams.”
Cloud-based systems are also enhancing how DSOs handle imaging and support collaboration across teams. Kumar Barot, CEO of Altius Dental, shared, “If it’s cloud-based, the chief dental officer can look at X-rays and treatment planning and give feedback in real time when needed.” These systems also allow different departments—such as revenue cycle management (RCM) and accounting—to access critical data simultaneously, reducing bottlenecks.
By utilizing cloud-based practice management solutions, DSOs can streamline data access and improve collaboration, allowing them to scale more effectively.
2. AI-powered workflow and diagnostics tools
AI technology is driving significant advancements in both administrative and clinical settings. Saam Zarrabi, DDS and CEO of Rodeo Dental, shared how his organization is using Overjet (AI analysis for X-rays) to enhance operations: “A big project for 2025 is we’re doing a full implementation with Overjet, including seeing how it helps reduce wait times for pre-authorizations and claim approvals. It also helps with the virtual consult process with specialists and with identifying patients who may have unmet treatment needs.”
Chris Salierno, DDS, chief dental officer of Tend, also emphasized AI’s growing role: “We’re currently testing AI-assisted radiograph review. 2D and 3D image analysis technology is the future, and it won’t be long before it’s a must-have for a modern practice. I’m especially interested in the AI developers who are integrating with the practice management system more deeply, providing features like prepping claims for payers and chart audits for clinical quality.”
Bill Bembry, director of operations at MB2 Dental, emphasized how AI improves patient communication: “My doctors who use AI for X-ray analysis say it’s extraordinarily beneficial in helping patients understand what treatment they need. It’s much better than just viewing X-rays.”
DSO leaders agreed that AI tools not only enhance diagnostic accuracy but also empower DSOs to improve the patient experience through faster, more precise treatment planning and greater patient understanding.
3. Patient engagement and communication platforms
Modern patients expect seamless, technology-driven communication. Many DSOs are adopting platforms like MaxAssist for re-care scheduling and Pearly to simplify billing. “People want everything to be paperless, everything to be easy,” Bembry noted. “Nobody wants to go to the front desk or stand in line. They prefer to have everything done in the room from scheduling the next appointment to collecting payment so they can leave as soon as possible.”
“Operationally, we’re looking for an automated solution that can do insurance breakdowns and write them back into our practice management system,” said Anushka Gaglani, DDS, Co-CEO of Areo Dental Group. “We already have automated online appointment scheduling, appointment reminders, and a process for rolling over calls that aren’t answered in the practice to a call center.”
“We want to make sure we’re tracking patient engagement and employee engagement,” expressed Zarrabi. “Other world-class service providers do this very well. I still see gaps in dentistry’s ability to measure the ROI [return on investment] on patient marketing and all the steps of the patient journey.”
By prioritizing convenience and accessibility, these tools help DSOs deliver a more patient-centric experience while improving operational efficiency.
4. 3D printing and restorative technologies
3D printing is revolutionizing restorative dentistry, enabling DSOs to provide same-day restorations to improve treatment efficiency. Tend Dental is at the forefront of this trend, as Salierno explained: “Resin materials have evolved quickly over the past few years, and we feel the doors are opening for same-day ceramic restorations.”
Bembry highlighted the use of CEREC machines and 3D imaging systems like iTero and Primescan, which are already streamlining workflows and enhancing efficiency: “Being able to process 3D images and fabricate same-day crowns is a huge advantage.”
These technologies eliminate the need for multiple patient visits, making same-day treatment a practical reality. As DSOs continue to invest in digital solutions, they are better equipped to meet the demands of modern dentistry while optimizing clinical and administrative workflows.
5. Automated revenue cycle management
Automation in RCM is another area where DSOs are seeing significant potential. Salierno expressed his optimism about AI’s significance, noting, “I’m very interested to see how AI and LLMs (large language models) will impact the RCM process. The payor and patient journeys have been ripe for disruption for some time, and I strongly believe AI will be the next major evolutionary tech in this space.”
These tools streamline claim preparation, improve accuracy, and help DSOs manage financial processes more effectively, freeing teams to focus on higher-value tasks.
Drive Growth with DSO Technology
The technologies shaping 2025 represent a new standard for DSOs striving to achieve operational excellence. Cloud-based practice management solutions, AI-driven tools, and patient-centric platforms are more than conveniences—they’re essential for staying competitive and delivering exceptional care.
To build a stronger foundation for success, DSOs should evaluate how these technologies align with their strategic goals. Whether it’s consolidating systems, leveraging AI for diagnostics, or streamlining patient communications, the right tools can transform the way organizations operate. Explore how Planet DDS can support your DSO’s journey by scheduling a demo today.
