The Association of Dental Support Organizations (ADSO) has named Dr. AJ Acierno as its next executive director. Acierno succeeds Andrew Smith, who has led the organization since 2021 and announced his departure in August.
Acierno began his career in 2001 as an associate dentist at Heartland Dental and opened his own practice in Schaumburg, IL, in 2003. In 2012, he co-founded the dental service organization (DSO) DecisionOne Dental Partners with his brother, Dr. Michael Acierno. The DSO grew to more than 35 practices before it joined Smile Brands in 2019. At Smile Brands, Acierno later served as president of clinical operations and chief dental officer, overseeing nearly 700 practices in 33 states.
In his new role, Acierno will lead ADSO’s advocacy efforts with state and U.S. policymakers, many of whom are newly elected and preparing to take office, the organization said. Acierno said dentists should be able to choose the practice model that best supports them, whether that is owning a practice, working as an associate, or partnering with a DSO.
Acierno earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Creighton University, where he serves on the board of trustees.
