Demystifying Private Equity and Orthodontic Practice Acquisition w/ Michael Kruspe

The orthodontic industry is currently only about 10% consolidated, which means that a relatively small percentage of practices are part of organized groups or dental support organizations (DSOs). With this landscape evolving rapidly, more and more practices are now considering the possibility of private equity-backed partnerships.

The problem? Misinformation and myths are swirling around like a tornado, making it hard for people to understand how private equity-backed DSOs work properly.

To shed light on this often misunderstood topic, we sat down with Michael Kruspe, Chief Development Officer at Smile Doctors, the largest orthodontic-focused DSO in the U.S.

Private equity is like a secret treasure chest in the business world. Unlike venture capital, which usually backs fresh startups, private equity sets its sights on seasoned businesses. Think of them as the superheroes of the business world, coming to the rescue of companies that are already making money and have a proven track record.

One of the intriguing aspects of private equity in orthodontics is the recurring four to five-year timeline. Michael sheds light on why this timeframe is crucial.

Private equity firms aim to invest in orthodontic practices, help them grow, and eventually move them to a more capitalized private equity firm. This process typically takes four to five years.

Michael predicts that similar to general dentistry, orthodontics will eventually see a higher level of consolidation, potentially reaching 35% or more. This underscores the early-stage nature of the industry’s transformation.

Whether you’re an orthodontist considering private equity or simply curious about the industry’s future, this conversation offers valuable insights into the world of private equity in the orthodontic industry and debunks common misconceptions.

Let’s dive in.