The orthodontic support organization reported double-digit growth in the opening half of 2026, driven by new affiliations and increased adult patient demand.
Smile Doctors announced it outpaced its growth projections during the opening half of 2026. The orthodontic support organization currently supports 591 locations across 36 states and expects to surpass 600 locations by the end of the year.
To support continued momentum, the company secured an additional $125 million in growth capital during the second quarter. The funds will be invested across the business for new affiliations, de novo expansion, and support for affiliated practices. The organization reported high double-digit growth in the initial six months of 2026, driven by same-store growth, new orthodontist affiliations, and de novo openings.
Expansion and Affiliations
Smile Doctors opened seven de novo locations during the opening six months of the year in partnership with existing affiliated orthodontists. The company expects to open an additional 18 locations over the next 12 months. The opening half of the year also marked one year since myOrthos and its more than 70 affiliated locations joined the network.
“Our growth continues to come from multiple sources—patients choosing our affiliated orthodontists, leading orthodontists choosing Smile Doctors as their long-term partner, and existing supported practices continuing to grow,” says J Hedrick, chief executive officer of Smile Doctors, in a release. “The additional growth capital allows us to continue investing behind that momentum by expanding into new communities, supporting our affiliated practices and making orthodontic care more accessible for patients.”
Adult Treatment Demand
Adult orthodontic treatment remains one of the fastest-growing segments for the company. Smile Express, a proprietary orthodontist-led clear aligner solution powered by Invisalign, delivered triple-digit year-over-year patient growth, according to the company. The system pairs as few as two in-office visits with virtual monitoring and doctor supervision.
“Whether we’re partnering with a single-practice orthodontist or a multi-location group, every conversation starts with what’s best for patients,” says Michael Kruspe, chief development officer of Smile Doctors, in a release. “That philosophy has guided us for the past decade and continues to resonate with orthodontists looking for a partner focused on long-term growth, clinical excellence and exceptional patient care.”
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