The Ultimate Guide to the Top 5 Dental Practice Management Systems

For most dental practices, workflow automation and proper record-keeping are crucial to minimizing errors and improving operational efficiency.

Whether your dental practice needs centralized patient records or simplified staff management, having the right dental Practice Management Software (PMS) can enhance your practice’s overall efficiency.

This blog will go into detail about our top 5 dental software list, highlighting their key features, benefits, and how they can help streamline your practice’s operations.

1. Dentrix

Dentrix, developed by Henry Schein, Inc. in 1985, is currently one of the leading dental practice management software solutions. Its goal from the start was to create a streamlined, paperless workflow for dental practices, and today over 35,000 users use it.

With Dentrix’s dental PMS, practices have access to an all-in-one solution for managing everything, including scheduling, patient files, billing, and analytics.

Key Features

• Appointment Scheduling: Dentrix streamlines appointment scheduling by offering features like the ASAP list, which fills cancellations quickly, and Perfect Day Scheduling, which customizes time-blocking for an efficient, structured workday.

• Dental Charting & Treatment Planning: Dentrix’s 3D Clinical chart offers interactive and lifelike representations of patient dental structures. Users can select multiple teeth and toggle between various views, including upper, lower, quadrant, and 3D. Additionally, Dentrix’s treatment planner simplifies scheduling by organizing procedures into multiple visits, tracking the status of each plan, and helping practices identify unscheduled or incomplete treatments.

• Patient Records Management: Dentrix centralizes patient data management, including medical histories, treatment plans, and X-rays, in one secure platform. With the Document Center, essential records like EOBs and clinical notes are easily accessible and safely stored.
• Reporting & Analytics: Dentrix provides powerful reporting and analytics tools that help practices track performance, generate financial reports, and analyze patient trends. These tools offer flexible reporting options, allowing practices to tailor reports to their specific needs and identify areas for improvement.

• Software & API Integrations: The Dentrix Connected program enables seamless integration with third-party tools such as imaging software, patient communication systems, and payment platforms, enhancing practice efficiency. Custom solutions are also available via the Dentrix Developer Program. Key integrations include BirdEye for feedback management, mConsent for digitizing forms, Patient News/Practice ZEBRA for marketing, Sesame for web and SEO, and CareCredit for payment flexibility.

Pros & Cons

These pros and cons are sourced from credible platforms such as G2, Capterra, and GetApp. 

Pros of Using Dentrix	Cons of Using Dentrix
All-in-one platform manages scheduling, billing, and patient records	Pricing can be expensive for smaller practices
Integrates easily with external tools for smoother operations	Steep learning curve, making it hard for new users to adapt
Customizable settings allow practices to tailor it to their needs	Customer support isn’t always responsive
User-friendly interface, simplifying staff training	Minor performance glitches can interrupt workflows

Pricing

At this time, Dentrix doesn’t disclose pricing information for their dental practice management software online. To get a customized quote that fits your practice’s specific requirements, it’s best to reach out to their sales team.

Check out our Dentrix PMS blog for more information on Dentrix’s specific features. 

2. ABELDent

Since 1977, ABELDent has helped dental practices streamline operations with its secure, easy-to-use software. Known for its secure, user-friendly interface, ABELDent’s software continues to evolve, supporting practices in managing their operations while staying focused on delivering quality care.

Key Features

• Appointment Scheduling: ABELDent’s scheduler integrates with patient records for quick access to treatment details and offers customizable tools like Ideal Day Blocking and Short Notice Tracking. These features, along with Goal Setting and Privacy Mode, help maximize practice efficiency, prevent no-shows, and ensure patient confidentiality.

• Dental Charting & Treatment Planning: ABELDent’s Dental Charting feature enables easy recording and charting of conditions and treatments. It supports multi-tooth selection, includes various chart types, and allows for custom clinical notes. On the other hand, ABELDent’s Treatment Planner automates scheduling, tracks treatments, and sends follow-up reminders to ensure no treatments are overlooked.

• Patient Records Management: ABELDent’s Patient Records Management system consolidates all patient information in one convenient hub, giving dental professionals quick access to medical histories, medications, allergies, and appointments through organized tabs. Features like the Patient Manager and Sidebar ensure clinicians can review critical data quickly, reducing time spent searching.

• Reporting & Analytics: ABELDent’s Reporting and Analytics delivers reports on practice growth, scheduling, recall rates, and financials, with the ability to create custom reports or use Power BI for deeper insights. The cloud-based module includes interactive dashboards and KPIs, offering valuable data on collection ratios and appointment trends to boost performance.

• Software & API Integrations: ABELDent integrates with tools like DEXIS, VixWin, and Sidexis, making it easy to manage digital X-rays and images while minimizing manual data entry. Its API enables custom integrations, offering flexibility to adapt the software for each practice’s specific needs.

Pros & Cons

After analyzing feedback from reputable sources such as Software Advice, G2, Capterra, and GetApp, we’ve compiled a detailed list of ABELDent’s pros and cons to help practices make informed decisions.

Pros of ABELDent	Cons of ABELDent
User-friendly interface and easy navigation	Occasional slow performance and system shutdowns
Responsive and knowledgeable customer support	Glitches in financial screens during payment processing
Comprehensive features for efficient dental office management	Limited support for multiple corporations within one instance
Remote access with ABELDent Cloud	Learning curve to fully utilize features
Excellent training provided by patient and thorough trainers	Long hold times for customer support
Regular updates to keep the system current	Confusion with some report titles or functions

Pricing

ABELDent provides various pricing options tailored to different requirements. The Freemium version is free but comes with limited features, while the premium Local Plus and Cloud versions start at $10 CAD per user per month, depending on the features and number of users. 

For accurate pricing, visit the ABELDent website or reach out to their sales team for a custom quote.

Check out our ABELDent PMS blog for more notificationon ABELDent’s specific features.

3. ClearDent

ClearDent’s dental software has been trusted by Canadian dental practices for over twenty years. Designed with dentists’ expertise, it simplifies day-to-day practice management and improves patient care. It is ideal for practices of all sizes, from solo practices to large public health institutions.

Key Features

• Appointment Scheduling: ClearDent’s scheduling system efficiently manages cancellations and no-shows using “Booked & Waiting” and “Short Notice” lists to fill open slots. With customizable options and the ClearConnect feature for automated reminders and messaging, practices can reduce missed appointments and streamline communication with patients.

• Dental Charting & Treatment Planning: ClearDent combines periodontal, restorative, and radiographic data into one screen, enhancing workflow and care. Its treatment planning feature allows users to easily create and manage customizable plans, assign providers, and track progress, ensuring patient-specific care at every step.

• Patient Records Management: ClearDent provides dentists with a unified platform to access patient records, including medical histories, X-rays, and treatment plans. The cloud-based ClearDent Link offers secure remote access to files, enabling smooth collaboration across locations and seamless record sharing with specialists and labs.

• Reporting & Analytics: ClearDent’s “ClearInsight” feature provides real-time analytics to help practices improve efficiency, identify new revenue opportunities, and make informed decisions. Key benefits include managing cash flow, monitoring performance metrics like chair utilization and billing, tracking patient retention, and setting goals based on trend analysis to drive practice growth.

• Software & API Integrations: ClearDent’s cloud-based system integrates new features seamlessly through standardized APIs and a modular design, allowing easy addition of in-house or third-party tools without disrupting operations. Key integrations include BirdEye for managing patient reviews, Sikka for advanced analytics, and MouthWatch for teledentistry.

Pros & Cons

This analysis is based on feedback from platforms such as SelectHub, G2.com, and Capterra, giving a well-rounded view of the software’s pros and cons as shared by actual users.

Pros of ClearDent	Cons of ClearDent
User-friendly design simplifies managing records, scheduling, and billing	Limited customization makes it harder to adapt to specific needs
Comprehensive features, from patient management to billing, insurance, and reporting	New users may struggle with the complex interface
Responsive and helpful customer support	Occasional issues with slow performance, crashes, and data loss
Affordable pricing, great for smaller practices	Inconsistent support, with some users reporting long wait times

Pricing

While ClearDent doesn’t list pricing on its website, SelectHub reports that it starts at around $219 CAD per month. Pricing can increase depending on the custom features and add-ons you choose. For an exact quote, it’s recommended to reach out to ClearDent for a personalized breakdown based on your practice’s needs.

Check out our ClearDent PMS blog for more information on ClearDent’s specific features.

4. EagleSoft

EagleSoft, developed by Patterson Dental in 1988, is a widely used dental practice management software known for its advanced integrations and robust features. 

With nearly 30,000 users across the U.S. and Canada, it helps practices of all sizes streamline workflows and improve productivity.

Key Features

• Appointment Scheduling: EagleSoft makes appointment management easier with features like IntelliCare Reminders for care updates, Quick Fill for adjusting schedules, and the Appointment Queue for tracking rescheduled or unscheduled visits. It also supports booking ongoing treatments through the Unscheduled Appointments feature.

• Dental Charting & Treatment Planning: EagleSoft’s customizable charting system integrates radiographs and intraoral photos, making it easy for dentists to document treatments like fillings and implants. It supports both pediatric and adult cases. Integrated with tools like DEXIS, it manages dental images while the treatment planner creates custom plans, generates estimates, and tracks progress with electronic signatures.

• Patient Records Management: EagleSoft’s patient management system streamlines record-keeping with customized health history forms that patients can complete and sign digitally. The Smart Clinical Notes feature uses standardized templates to simplify documentation, ensuring accuracy and organization. Patients can also access their records, appointments, and treatment plans through integrated patient portals.

• Reporting & Analytics: EagleSoft’s centralized database optimizes record management and decision-making. SnapShot provides a quick overview of practice performance, while the Month at a Glance feature highlights daily trends, minimizing manual reporting and administrative tasks.

• Software & API Integrations: EagleSoft supports integration with a variety of third-party applications, including Podium for patient messaging, RevenueWell for marketing automation, Dolphin Imaging for diagnostics, and BirdEye and Review Wave for handling patient reviews and improving online reputation.

Pros & Cons

These pros and cons have been gathered from trusted review platforms like Capterra, Software Advice, GetApp, and Software Radius.

Pros of EagleSoft	Cons of EagleSoft
Easily customizable to fit practice needs, improving usability.	Frequent crashes and freezes, especially during patient care, with a confusing ledger interface.
Offers a wide range of tools, including reporting and integration with Patterson Imaging.	Issues with compatibility, particularly with Windows updates and other software.
Boosts efficiency by tracking patients and referrals, integrating well with other apps.	Syncing with other software often causes freezes and disrupts workflows.
Fast and effective customer support, though Canadian assistance is no longer available.	Navigation is challenging for some features, but customization helps.

Pricing

EagleSoft does not list its pricing plans publicly on their website, but they do offer a free trial and provide customized quotes based on individual practice needs. For specific pricing details, it’s best to reach out to their customer support or request a quote directly through their website.

Check out our EagleSoft PMS blog for more information on EagleSoft’s specific features.

5. MaxiDent

MaxiDent is a dental PMS known for integrating patient management tasks—check-in, record transfers, and appointment reminders—into a single, easy-to-use system. Its scalable, cloud-based platform supports both solo and multi-location practices in the U.S. and Canada. 

With features like voice input and digital imaging, it receives high ratings for boosting efficiency and patient care.

Key Features

• Appointment Scheduling: To minimize no-shows, MaxiDent’s ‘Never Lose A Patient™‘ system automates reminders, keeping patients informed about their appointments. Integrated with MaxiReminder, it ensures that recalls and follow-ups are handled automatically.

• Dental Charting & Treatment Planning: MaxiDent’s MaxiChart™ offers advanced, hands-free charting, customizable perio paths, and smart automation. Additionally, features such as Supercodes automate complex procedures, the Never-Lose-A-Treatment Plan System conveniently tracks pending treatments, and the Ortho Contract Manager manages orthodontic contracts efficiently.

• Patient Records Management: With MaxiDent’s EMR, dental professionals can easily manage and retrieve patient records thanks to its secure, centralized storage. It includes direct scanning for documents like treatment plans and consent forms, minimizing manual entry, while the digital signature feature ensures signed records are seamlessly integrated.

• Reporting & Analytics: MaxiDent’s reporting tools offer valuable insights into patient demographics, finances, and treatment progress. Practices can create tailored reports, while the management reports manager organizes data for easy tracking and decision-making.

• Software & API Integrations: MaxiDent easily integrates with software like Blue Jay Reviews for reputation management, EasyRx for lab tracking, and Gustin Quon for SEO. API integrations include Cyclone Systems for VoIP communication and Elavon for secure, real-time payment processing, streamlining operations across the board.

Pros & Cons

The following pros and cons come from user reviews on reputable platforms such as Capterra, Software Advice, and GetApp.

Pros of MaxiDent	Cons of MaxiDent
Users find the software easy to navigate	Difficult setup process when converting from other systems
Comprehensive features like super codes and perio dictation enhance charting and billing	Software runs slowly in server-based environments, and perio charting lacks flexibility
Responsive customer support with effective issue resolution	Complex payment entry process, especially with insurance discrepancies
Smooth insurance integration for efficient claims handling	Not available on Mac, restricting access for Apple-based practices
Prescription pad and chart notes make patient care documentation easier

Pricing

Though MaxiDent doesn’t disclose exact pricing, sources like Capterra, SelectHub, and GetApp Canada indicate that subscriptions start at $199.95 CAD as of August 22, 2024.

Check out our MaxiDent PMS blog for more information on MaxiDent’s specific features.

Comparison Table

Dental PMS	Key Features	Pros	Cons	Pricing
Dentrix	All-in-one solution: scheduling, billing, charting, patient records, API integrations	Comprehensive tools, customizable settings, integrates well with third-party apps, user-friendly interface	Expensive, steep learning curve, inconsistent customer support, minor performance glitches	Custom quote required
ABELDent	Scheduling, charting, patient records, custom reports, remote access with ABELDent Cloud	User-friendly, excellent training, responsive support, remote access via the cloud	Occasional slowdowns, glitches during payment processing, learning curve, long support wait times	Freemium; Premium starts at $10 CAD
ClearDent	Appointment management, treatment planning, real-time analytics, secure cloud-based records	Easy-to-use interface, comprehensive features, helpful customer support, affordable for smaller practices	Limited customization, complex interface for new users, occasional performance issues, inconsistent support	Starts at $219 CAD per month
EagleSoft	Customizable charting, treatment planning, patient portals, strong third-party app integrations	Customizable, integrates with tools like Patterson Imaging, boosts efficiency with tracking, responsive support	Frequent crashes, compatibility issues with Windows, syncing problems, navigation challenges	Custom quote required
MaxiDent	Automated reminders, advanced charting, centralized EMR, VoIP and payment integrations	Easy navigation, comprehensive features like super codes, responsive customer support, smooth insurance integration	Challenging setup, slow performance in server environments, complex payment entry, not Mac-compatible	Starts at $199.95 CAD per month

Conclusion

Choosing the right dental PMS involves aligning your practice’s operational needs with the features that each software provides. In this review, we’ve covered Dentrix, ABELDent, ClearDent, EagleSoft, and MaxiDent. Here’s a brief recap of the key differences between each dental software:

• Dentrix: Ideal for large practices looking for a feature-rich, all-in-one system, but it comes with a high cost and learning curve.
• ABELDent: User-friendly and cloud-based, perfect for practices looking for ease of use and strong customer support, though some performance issues may arise.
• ClearDent: Affordable and popular with Canadian practices, but its limited customization and steep interface learning curve could pose challenges.
• EagleSoft: A highly customizable system with strong integrations, though users report technical issues like crashes and software freezing.
• MaxiDent: Easy to navigate with strong patient management tools, although its setup and performance in server environments can be slow.

Ultimately, your choice should reflect your practice’s specific needs, such as patient volume, integration requirements, and budget. Conducting software trials and reviewing user feedback will provide valuable insights into each PMS option. 
At Wisevu, we specialize in supporting dental practices by offering tailored digital marketing services, from SEO to website development. We’ll also ensure that your chosen dental PMS integrates properly with your existing systems and workflows, helping you maximize efficiency and improve patient care.