Private equity ownership affects dental practices

Private equity firms have been increasingly acquiring dental practices in the US, raising concerns about the impact on patient care and the dental industry as a whole. According to a 2022 report, private equity firms own approximately 20% of dental practices in the US. The ownership structure of these firms typically involves a combination of private equity investors, management teams, and sometimes medical professionals. This setup allows private equity firms to make strategic decisions about the dental practice, including hiring and firing staff, setting prices, and investing in new technologies. Critics argue that this shift towards private equity ownership has led to a decline in patient satisfaction, increased costs, and a focus on profit over patient care. Some dental professionals also claim that private equity firms are pushing them to see more patients per day, leading to burnout and decreased quality of care. Others argue that private equity ownership has brought in new capital and resources, allowing dental practices to invest in modern technology and improve their services. The American Dental Association (ADA) has expressed concerns about the impact of private equity ownership on the dental industry, citing concerns about the potential for reduced patient access to care and decreased quality of care.