Private equity firms have continued to make an impact on the DSO and dental spaces this year, despite some predicting a slower year in 2024.

Irvine, Calif.-based Pacific Dental Services recently added three specialty dental groups to its network.

Based on insights gained from the DSO DataCONNECT database, all three market segments of DSOs and group practices (comprising three or more locations) have demonstrated significant growth in the number of affiliated locations over the past three years.

Here are 29 moves made by some of the largest DSOs in the U.S. in the first quarter, including practice additions, executive moves, initiatives launched and more, as reported by Becker's. 

Nashville, Tenn.-based Endodontic Practice Partners recently added a Florida practice to its network. 

Denver-based Espire Dental made its first acquisition in Texas, marking the fifth state in which the company supports practices.

Chicago-based Aspen Dental is staying committed to providing opportunities and empowering dentists, clinicians and other dental staff.

Here are three DSO deals Becker's has reported on so far in 2024:  

Sharon, Mass.-based Qualitas Dental Partners expanded into Central Rhode Island with the addition of four practices. 

California, Florida, New York and Illinois are the states that saw the most DSO activity during the first quarter of 2024.

Two DSOs have recently made notable moves in the pediatric dental field to enhance care for patients and expand their networks.

DSOs and dental organizations were most actively adding, opening and acquiring practices in Texas, Florida and Georgia during March.

Several DSOs acquired, opened or affiliated with more than 60 dental practices across the U.S. during the first quarter of 2024. 

Dental service organizations are faced with a range of significant challenges. Retaining patients, growing revenue while patients are spending less, and managing staff shortages and turnover to name a few.

Alpharetta, Ga.-based Foundation Dental Partners recently partnered with a dental practice in Atlanta.

Irving, Texas-based Specialized Dental Partners expanded its network with a practice in Chicago.

Jonesboro, Ark.-based GPS Dental recently added practices in Maine and Illinois to its network.

Avenel, N.J.-based DSO Eastern Dental has teamed up with New York City-based BlueSleep, a specialty care platform, to advance medical-dental integration.

Real estate investment company Four Corners Property Trust recently purchased a Heartland Dental property for $2 million.

Here are five DSOs and dental organizations in the Midwest that are adding practices, getting investments and more that Becker's has reported on since Feb. 20: