ADSO Names Dr. AJ Acierno Executive Director

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Posted: November 6, 2026

Edited by Dentaltown staff

WASHINGTON—The Association of Dental Support Organizations (ADSO) has named Dr. AJ Acierno its next executive director. He succeeds Andrew Smith, who has led ADSO since 2021 and announced his departure in August.

Acierno earned his DDS from Creighton University in 2001 and began his career that year as an associate at Heartland Dental, becoming a practice owner in Schaumburg, Ill., in 2003. In 2012, he co-founded DecisionOne Dental Partners with his brother, Dr. Michael Acierno, growing it to more than 35 practices before leading its 2019 merger with Smile Brands.

At Smile Brands, he served as chief operating officer of its Midwest region, overseeing 191 practices in 12 states, and later as president of clinical operations and chief dental officer, a role covering nearly 700 practices and 7,500 team members in 33 states.

“Every dentist should have the right to choose the practice model that best supports them in caring for their patients,” said Acierno.

ADSO said Acierno will lead its advocacy and growth as newly elected state and federal policymakers take office.

For more information, visit theadso.org.

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