[Expert Solution]: Private equity firms that owned dental…

Private equity firms that owned dental practices often set up incentive systems that rewarded dentists based on the volume and revenue of procedures performed, rather than patient health outcomes. This led to dentists being pressured to provide more treatments, sometimes unnecessary ones, to maximize profits. As a result, patient care quality suffered, with over-treatment becoming a major problem and trust between patients and dentists eroding. If I were to design a dental practice focused on maximizing patient oral health, I would structure it very differently. First, I would create a reward system for dentists based on patient health outcomes—such as improvements in gum health, fewer cavities, and patient satisfaction—not just the number of procedures done. I would emphasize preventive care and education, encouraging regular cleanings and check-ups over invasive treatments. The practice would ideally accept insurance plans that support preventive care, such as Medicaid or plans with good coverage for check-ups and cleanings, to make care accessible to low-income patients. Finally, I’d build strong patient communication policies to foster trust, ensuring treatments are clearly explained and truly necessary. This approach prioritizes long-term health over short-term profits.