North Carolina has eliminated its requirement that dental service organizations (DSOs) submit management arrangements to the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners for review and approval before operating in the state. The change, enacted under Session Law 2026-41, took effect July 7.
The board retains authority to investigate management arrangements in response to complaints, and DSOs and dentists must continue to comply with the state's Dental Practice Act, according to Dimensions of Dental Hygiene.
The change is expected to reduce administrative delays and lower transaction costs for dentists and DSOs pursuing affiliations or ownership transitions in North Carolina.
