The rapid adoption of AI, the integration of dental and healthcare professionals and the vast ownership opportunities are just three of the many things that have dentists and dental industry executives excited about the future.
The 22 leaders featured in this article are speaking at Becker's 2025 Fall Future of Dentistry Roundtable, set for Sept. 29 and 30 at the Hyatt Regency in Chicago.
If you work at a DSO or dental practice and would like to be considered as a speaker, please contact Randi Haseman at rhaseman@beckershealthcare.com.
Note: Responses were lightly edited for clarity and length.
Question: What gets you excited/optimistic about the future of the dental industry?
For these dentists and executives, the advancement of AI and technology has them excited going forward:
Phil Cassis. Co-Founder and CEO of Providence Dental Partners (Atlanta): The future of dentistry is brighter than ever! There are some exciting advancements in AI that continue to positively impact clinical diagnosis and outcomes. Additionally, AI is streamlining business operations, allowing practices to operate more efficiently and effectively. There is also an increased focus on preventative services and overall wellness. This effort is supported and driven by new dental technologies like Curodont and Guided Biofilm Therapy. All of these advancements allow us to provide better quality, patient-centric dental care and an elevated patient experience. I'm excited about the possibilities ahead and the positive impact we can make on millions of lives through better oral health.
Jaideep Deshpande. Executive Director, Strategy and Marketing of University of Illinois Chicago College of Dentistry: I'm excited about the future of the dental industry because of the rapid advancements in technology, such as AI-driven diagnostics, 3D printing for dental implants and laser treatments that improve precision and reduce recovery times. These innovations are not only enhancing patient care but also making dental procedures more efficient and accessible. Additionally, growing awareness around oral health is driving a more proactive approach to dental care, empowering patients to take control of their oral health long-term. It's an exciting time for both patients and professionals alike!
Haim Haviv. Founder and CEO of Hudson Dental (New York City): I'm excited about the future of the dental industry because of the transformative potential of new technologies. For example, 3D printing is enabling same-day dentistry, and AI receptionist services allow patients to book appointments and get answers to their questions 24/7. Additionally, industry consolidation and the retirement of baby boomers are creating opportunities to modernize dental offices with technology and pass cost savings on to patients.
Allison Horn. Vice President of Marketing of Imagen Dental Partners (Scottsdale, Ariz.): I've spent the better part of my career supporting medical practices, so stepping into the dental industry four years ago has been a fascinating shift. What excites me most is seeing how concepts that have long been standard in medical — like capacity management, patient access, and data-driven marketing attribution — are now becoming priorities in dentistry.
AI is playing a huge role in this transformation. In marketing, it's helping us pinpoint exactly which efforts drive patient conversion, making campaigns more strategic and efficient. No more throwing things at the wall and hoping they stick—we now have the ability to track attribution with precision and optimize in real time.
Beyond marketing, capacity planning and utilization is a game-changer. In medicine, practices have long used data to balance patient flow and optimize resources. Now, DSOs are starting to take the same approach — using predictive analytics to ensure practices run efficiently, reducing bottlenecks and improving access to care. The ability to align marketing efforts with operational capacity means we're not just generating patient interest — we're making sure they can actually get the care they need when they need it.
Seeing these innovations take hold in dentistry is what gets me excited. The more we bridge the gap between marketing, operations and patient experience, the more we can drive sustainable growth while improving access to quality dental care.
Andrew Jones. COO of Imagen Dental Partners (Scottsdale, Ariz.): I'm most excited about future generations of providers embracing technology and focusing on elevated patient experiences. Our associates, hygienists and assistants grew up using technology intuitively and expect to do so in service of patients. We're proud to offer unparalleled technology and education to these providers for better clinical outcomes and patient experiences.
Geith Kallas, DDS. Dentist and CEO of Smile Makers Dental Center (Tyson's Corner, Va.): The future of dentistry is poised for revolutionary change, transforming traditional practices from "art based on science" to "science based on technology." Artificial intelligence and machine learning diagnostic tools, personalized treatment planning and predictive analytics will revolutionize dental care, enabling more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. Advanced CAD/CAM systems, 3D printing and digital impressions will streamline dental procedures, improve accuracy and enhance patient experience, making dental care more efficient and patient-friendly. Virtual and augmented reality technologies will transform dental education, patient communication and treatment planning, providing unparalleled insights and improving outcomes. These technological advancements will redefine the dental industry, enabling dentists to provide more precise, efficient, more predictable, and patient-centered care.
Paul Kim. Board Member of Planet Smile Partners (Hastings-On-Hudson, N.Y.): Dentistry has transformed and evolved tremendously over the last 10 years. I'm excited to be part of a profession that traditionally has been very slow to adopt technology, which has now adopted and leveraged technological advances that can help achieve clinical excellence to a high standard. Additionally, the interconnectedness that we've achieved in healthcare through technology, internet, webinars, social media platforms, group practice networks, organized dentistry and organizations like Becker's, has been so tremendous that even solo practitioners don't feel isolated. This interconnectivity only raises the quality of the profession.
Alan Law, DDS, PhD. President of the Dental Specialists (Woodbury, Minn.): As an endodontist who's been practicing for nearly 30 years, what excites me most about the future of the dental industry is the rapid advancements in technology and how they're transforming patient care and treatment outcomes. We've seen so much growth in areas like AI integration and imaging techniques, and these innovations will only continue to improve.
As the understanding of oral health's connection to overall health expands, there is more focus on early diagnosis and intervention. This approach will not only improve patient outcomes but also allow for more cost-effective treatments in the long run. Additionally, I'm excited about the younger generation of dentists coming into the field. They're bringing fresh perspectives and are often more open to embracing new technologies and interdisciplinary approaches to care. I find it energizing to work with them in both clinical practice and research settings.
From a research standpoint, I'm particularly optimistic about the ongoing progress in regenerative endodontics, in particular, holds the potential for repairing and regenerating dental tissues, which could revolutionize how we approach tooth preservation in the future. Lastly, the increasing collaboration between dental specialties is another reason I'm excited. As part of a multispecialty group, it's incredibly rewarding to see how we're all learning from one another and working together for comprehensive patient care. This holistic approach will continue to shape the future of dentistry in ways that benefit both patients and providers alike.
Satish Pai, DMD. Founder and CEO of Brite Dental Partners (Carmel, N.Y.): I'm excited for new technologies and workflows surrounding patients engagement expectations, including ease of getting to a dentist or specialist, online appointments, having the referring office make the specialist appointment or vice versa, text and pay, appointment confirmations via texts and emails and AI processing for insurance verification and revenue cycle management. I am also excited for new digital dentistry workflows and adoption including AI, digital scanning and 3D printing.
Francesca Pregano. COO of Smile Makers Dental Center (Tyson's Corner, Va.): As more dentists integrate AI, I am optimistic about how this technology will continue to transform the operational systems of a dental office — not only in clinical diagnosis but also in the team's ability to educate patients and improve case acceptance. Beyond clinical applications, AI serves as a powerful resource for leadership teams, enabling them to enhance daily operations, streamline workflows and make data-driven decisions that improve overall efficiency. Additionally, AI reduces the need for second opinions while strengthening trust between dentists and patients, as well as between dentists and their support teams.
Ronald Saffar, DDS. CEO and President of My Orthodontist (Lawrence Township, N.J.): Dentistry is entering a transformative era driven by AI and industry consolidation. While only 30% of dentistry is consolidated today, DSOs are streamlining operations, reducing costs and allowing doctors to focus on patient care. AI is enhancing diagnosis, treatment planning and efficiency, while robotics is improving chairside precision. These advancements will lead to earlier disease detection, more personalized treatments and better patient experiences. The digital age of dentistry is here, making the industry more efficient, accessible and rewarding for both practitioners and patients.
Matthew Simko. Director of Brand Marketing at 42 North Dental (Waltham, Mass.): It's an exciting time to be in the dental industry. Our rapid advancement in technology and advancement in both clinical and operational tools is propelling our industry forward at a compelling pace. A solid focus on the patient experiences, along with exceptional dental care, is a winning strategy.
Mariz Tanious, DDS. Chief Dental Officer of Affinity Dental Management (Holyoke, Mass.): I'm incredibly excited about the future of the dental industry, especially with the integration of AI-driven technology, which is revolutionizing our field. AI technologies, such as Overjet, enable more precise diagnostics, personalized treatment planning and enhanced patient outcomes. These advancements help our providers focus on a holistic and comprehensive approach when treating patients, which in turn improves oral healthcare.
For other leaders, more integration between the dental and medical fields, ownership opportunities and improved outcomes are reasons for excitement:
Catrise Austin, DDS. Owner of VIP Smiles Cosmetic Dentistry (New York City): I'm incredibly optimistic about the future of the dental industry because of the rise of niche dentistry practices, advancements in technology and the growing accessibility of affordable dental care options. More dentists are specializing in cosmetic, implant and sleep dentistry, allowing them to serve targeted patient needs with greater expertise. The expansion of affordable dental membership plans in this economy is also making quality care more accessible for uninsured patients. Additionally, AI-driven diagnostics and minimally invasive treatments are improving efficiency and patient outcomes. Lastly, branding and digital marketing continue to empower dental professionals to build strong, recognizable personal brands, setting themselves apart in an increasingly competitive market. The future of dentistry is all about innovation, accessibility, and creating a personalized experience for every patient and I'm happy to be a part of it!
Christopher Brendemuhl, DMD. Director of Dentistry of Valleywise Health Medical Center (Phoenix): What's exciting to me is that oral health will be increasingly integrated into whole person health. In short, that means "putting the mouth back into the body" when it comes to healthcare. For too long, dental care and general medical care have been siloed, but now we are seeing that partnerships and interprofessional practice lead to better patient outcomes. Links between oral health and systemic health have long been recognized, but seeing dentistry incorporated more into primary care like we do in Valleywise Health's FQHCs is something I'm passionate about because we know integration leads to better health outcomes (not just dental outcomes!) for our patients.
I'm optimistic about the future of dentistry as Valleywise Health prepares to launch its first independently accredited dental residency program. Valleywise Health has been training physicians since 1952, and now we are beginning an AEGD Residency program that allows us to help train the next generation of dentists and incorporate them into our integrated practices. They get exposure to the medical side of care, and our medical colleagues get exposure to enthusiastic dental learners. Working with students makes us all better caregivers!
Joshua Everts, DDS, MD. Chief Clinical Officer of OMS360 (Alpharetta, Ga.): I'm energized by the transformative impact that strategic partnerships are having on surgical practices, enabling oral surgeons to focus on clinical excellence while leveraging enterprise-level resources for practice growth. The rapid advancement of surgical technology, combined with sophisticated practice analytics, is creating unprecedented opportunities to enhance patient care and surgical outcomes. As chief clinical officer at a surgical support organization, I'm particularly optimistic about our ability to develop the next generation of surgeon leaders while building sustainable, scalable practice models that elevate the entire specialty.
Joseph Kolligan. Director of Growth of Salt Flats Dentistry (Riverton, Utah): What excites me most about the future of dentistry is the immense opportunity for ownership, the rapid evolution of technology and the increasing focus on comprehensive patient care. Private practice is thriving — whether through acquisitions of established offices or de novo scratch starts, the options for ownership have never been more abundant. With access to better financing, mentorship and business education, dentists today have more control over their careers than ever before.
At the same time, advancements in digital dentistry, AI-driven diagnostics and new materials are making treatments more efficient, precise and accessible. We're also seeing a shift toward a more patient-centric approach emphasizing whole-body health, minimally invasive procedures and personalized care.
From a recruitment standpoint, the demand for skilled providers is higher than ever, and practices that prioritize culture, technology and patient care are thriving. Whether a dentist wants to be an associate, partner or owner, the industry is full of pathways to success. Hygienists are gaining more and more opportunities, as states begin legalizing the independent practice of dental hygiene.
Ultimately, the future of dentistry is about innovation, ownership and providing better outcomes for both providers and patients. That's what keeps me excited and optimistic.
Justin Lai, DDS. Chief Dental Executive and Director of Dent-Well (Houston): New innovations in patient engagement and education along with streamlining of office workflows.
Daniel Richards. Chief Executive Officer of CFO Dental Partners (Eagle, Idaho): It's easy to get excited about the future of the dental industry! With more people focusing on oral health and its importance to overall health, there's a lot of room for growth. Tech innovations like AI are making giant leaps forward and are making things more efficient and accessible for patients, which is awesome. Practice owners have more tools now than ever to operate a successful practice, whether that be solo or in a group, so there's a lot of potential for the industry to keep thriving!
Daniel Tataje, DDS. Founder and CEO of Mercy Dental Group (Middleton, Wis.): I'm optimistic about the future of the dental industry because I see a growing recognition of the importance of taking care of the people within the business. I believe that when we invest in our teams and build strong, positive cultures, we can create a greater, more lasting impact.
Over the past 20 years, there's been a significant focus on financial gains, which I understand is a necessary part of running a successful business. However, I'm excited to see more leaders shifting their attention toward their teams and their patients. When we prioritize people — our employees and those we serve — the financial results will follow naturally. This people-first approach not only improves patient care but also drives long-term success in the industry.
Jeffrey Tomcsik. CEO of Grand Dental Group (Aurora, Ill.): What gets me excited about the future of the dental industry? Opportunity! The dental industry is still very fragmented. There are thousands of ways to run an office as proven by the thousands of independently owned and operated dental offices. None of them had a playbook, and they all had to figure it out anyway. The same holds true for DSOs. They are all run differently in so many ways. This fragmentation creates opportunity. There are opportunities to provide a better way to build systems, train staff, treat patients, communicate, educate, collect, reward and simply manage. Grand Dental is a transformative organization. We are changing the way employees are hired, trained, treated and rewarded. We are creating systems that make the patient's experience smoother, more predictable and more fun. We are changing the way doctors think about group practice by keeping our group privately owned by its best doctors that want to stay owners for the long run. Our model improves exponentially year over year, creating a headwind of doctors seeking us out to associate with, partner with and/or to sell to. We are our regions' go to partner if you care about your patients, staff and your personal future post-transaction, and we're very proud of that.
Sami Webb, DDS. CEO of Epic4 Specialty Partners (Scottsbluff, Neb.): The future of dentistry is bright, especially for women in the profession. As more women take on leadership roles in dentistry, we are seeing a shift toward a more balanced, patient-centered and collaborative approach to care. Women bring unique perspectives, empathy and innovation to the field, helping to shape practices that support both professional growth and personal fulfillment. I'm excited to see the continued rise of female dentists and leaders, breaking barriers and redefining what's possible in our industry.