Since 1972
History of the AADGP
For more than half a century, the American Academy of Dental Group Practice (AADGP) has stood at the forefront of one of the most transformative movements in dentistry: the rise and evolution of group practice. From its earliest days, the Academy has served as the national home for innovators—dentists who believed that collaboration, efficiency, and shared expertise could elevate both the patient experience and the profession itself.
A Vision Ahead of Its Time
In the early 1970s, when group practice models were still viewed as unconventional, a small group of forward-thinking dental leaders recognized a critical need. There was no national resource, no unified voice, and no professional identity for those building multi-site practices. These pioneers founded AADGP on a bold premise: that group practice dentistry could deliver care that was not only equal to, but often more efficient, accessible, and patient-centered than traditional solo practice models.
They envisioned an organization where leaders could learn from one another, strengthen their business and clinical systems, and demonstrate the value of group practice to the broader dental community.
Five Decades of Progress
Founding and Early Purpose
From its inception in 1972, AADGP set out to:
- Establish a national identity for dental group practices
- Create a forum for peer-to-peer learning and shared problem-solving
- Provide business, operational, and clinical guidance tailored to group settings
- Serve as a liaison to other dental organizations
- Champion the quality and integrity of care delivered through group models
This foundation positioned AADGP as the first and only national organization dedicated exclusively to the needs of group practice leaders.
Growth and Evolution
As group practices expanded across the country, AADGP became the central gathering place for:
- Owners and administrators of multi-site practices
- Early DSOs and emerging group models
- Clinicians seeking business and leadership education
The Academy’s annual meeting quickly became its signature event—an essential destination for leaders shaping the future of dental group practice. Over these decades, AADGP expanded its impact through:
- CE-accredited education
- Business and operational training
- Exhibits showcasing new technologies
- A national office and administrative infrastructure
- A quarterly newsletter and growing library of resources
- Strengthened relationships with other dental organizations
AADGP became the place where group practice leaders could find both community and clarity.
Modern Era
As DSOs and multispecialty groups surged nationwide, AADGP continued to evolve—remaining firmly committed to doctor-owned, doctor-driven practice leadership. Key developments include:
- A renewed emphasis on independence, collaboration, and peer mentorship
- Expanded CE offerings, including ADA CERP and AGD PACE credits
- Workshop-style conferences focused on hands-on business and operational mastery (revenue cycle, AI, equity structures, and more)
- Stronger support for small and mid-sized groups navigating growth and scale
Today, AADGP leaders emphasize that the Academy remains a place where practice owners can learn from peers who have “been there, done that”—a trusted community guiding dentists through every stage of group practice development.
50Years of Impact
A Legacy of Collaboration
By 2024–2025, AADGP celebrated its 50th anniversary—marking:
- Five decades of advancing group practice innovation
- A community that spans solo-to-group transitions, multispecialty practices, and DSOs
- A legacy of helping dentists build sustainable, patient-centered, business-savvy organizations
For 50 years, AADGP has empowered dental leaders to shape the future of care delivery. Its history is not simply a timeline—it is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and the belief that dentistry is stronger when we grow together.