The transfer of trust

The dental industry is undergoing a fundamental transformation, making the integrated and “co-located” pediatric-orthodontic practice model a strategic and powerful competitive advantage. The convergence of patient psychology, market dynamics, industry-wide structural shifts (DSOs), and compelling clinical evidence, positions this collaborative model as the future standard of care. As a pediatric dentist, I would not practice without an orthodontist by my side.  

Transitioning from pediatric dentistry alone to orthodontics, which is co-located within my practice, alleviates some psychological challenges for patients. Dental fear and anxiety are a significant barrier, with a global prevalence affecting nearly 24% of all children and adolescents. This anxiety is highest in younger children, precisely when the foundation of trust is built within the pediatric “dental home.” The traditional referral to an outside specialist can disrupt the patient’s comfort and trust, creating stress for both the child and parents, because it is one more thing to worry about, and one more appointment to make. An integrated model mitigates this by making the transition a seamless continuation of care within a familiar and comfortable environment, preserving the invaluable relationship built throughout the years, during a formative period in the patients’ lives. 

The orthodontic services market is large due to strong clinical demand. Nearly 30% of the population has malocclusions severe enough to warrant treatment, and orthodontic procedures account for 14.5% of all pediatric dental visits. However, children with public insurance and those from Black and Hispanic families have the lowest rates of orthodontic care. The integrated model is structurally superior at lowering the non-clinical barriers — such as separate appointments and administrative burdens — that disproportionately affect these families, unlocking a significant opportunity for growth. I frequently ask my orthodontist colleague to examine a child during their pediatric visit while in the chair.  

This clinical model is perfectly aligned with the dental industry’s evolution away from solo practice. The solo practitioner model is in steep decline among new dentists; only 17% of recent graduates now work as solo practitioners, while 27% are affiliated with Dental Service Organizations. The integrated specialty practice is the logical next step toward collaborative and co-located pediatric dentistry and orthodontics group structures, creating a financially efficient system that internalizes referrals and maximizes the lifetime value of each patient family. 

The benefits of this model are quantified by extensive research on interprofessional collaboration (IPC). Studies show that IPC leads to a 15% increase in patient treatment adherence, a 77% decline in errors, and patient satisfaction rates as high as 95%. This translates directly to better clinical outcomes, reduced risk, and enhanced profitability. 

The integrated pediatric–orthodontic model addresses patient anxiety, access disparities, and industry change, while creating a seamless, trusted care pathway. 

When we work side by side, pediatric dentists and orthodontists are not just aligning teeth; we are shaping one of the most formative healthcare experiences of a child’s life. That is the true power — and responsibility — of the transfer of trust.