Dentsply Sirona & Burkhart Forge Tech Alliance to Boost Digital Dentistry

CHARLOTTE, NC – February 24, 2026 – Dentsply Sirona, the world’s largest manufacturer of professional dental technologies, and Burkhart Dental Supply, a venerable full-service distributor, have announced a significant expansion of their long-standing partnership. Effective April 1, 2026, Burkhart will begin distributing Dentsply Sirona's complete portfolio of high-tech dental equipment, a move poised to accelerate the adoption of digital dentistry across the United States.

The agreement adds Dentsply Sirona’s flagship technology solutions—including the renowned CEREC CAD/CAM system, Primescan intraoral scanners, and Axeos extraoral imaging units—to Burkhart's offerings. This complements the preventive and restorative products the distributor already provides, creating a comprehensive, end-to-end ecosystem for dental practices seeking to modernize their operations and enhance patient care.

This strategic alignment is more than a simple distribution deal; it represents a concerted effort to address the core challenges practitioners face in the industry's rapid shift toward integrated digital workflows. By combining Dentsply Sirona's cutting-edge hardware and software with Burkhart's extensive service infrastructure, the partnership aims to demystify digital adoption for thousands of dental offices.

The Push for a Connected Practice

The dental industry is in the midst of a profound digital transformation. The global market for dental CAD/CAM technologies alone was valued at USD 2.8 billion in 2024 and is projected to surge to USD 6.1 billion by 2034. This growth is fueled by the demand for greater efficiency, improved clinical accuracy, and a superior patient experience. Dentsply Sirona has been at the forefront of this wave, championing the concept of 'connected dentistry.'

This vision involves the seamless integration of devices, software, and services into a unified ecosystem, often managed through a central cloud platform like the company's DS Core. For a dental practice, this means a workflow where a patient can be scanned with a Primescan device, the restoration designed on a computer, and the final crown or bridge milled in-office with a CEREC system—all within a single, connected environment. This integration promises to reduce chair time, minimize errors, and deliver highly precise outcomes.

"Together with Burkhart Dental Supply, we are excited to help practices embrace the future of connected dentistry—a future where devices, software, and workflows seamlessly integrate from scanning to designing to manufacturing, making it easier for dental professionals to work efficiently and deliver exceptional patient care,” said Aldo Denti, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Dentsply Sirona, in the official announcement.

A Strategic Play in a Competitive Market

This expanded alliance is a calculated move in the highly competitive dental distribution landscape. Dentsply Sirona, which holds a commanding share of the digital dentistry market, is solidifying its U.S. market presence through a multi-partner distribution strategy. This announcement follows similar expansions with other major distributors like Patterson Dental and Benco Dental earlier this year, signaling a clear intent to maximize the reach of its technology portfolio.

By adding Burkhart to this roster, Dentsply Sirona gains access to a loyal customer base cultivated over more than a century. Founded in 1888 and now in its fifth generation of family ownership, Burkhart has built a reputation that extends beyond logistics. The company is known for a high-touch, consultative approach, distinguishing itself from larger competitors like Henry Schein and Patterson Dental through its emphasis on personalized service and practice support.

For Burkhart, the partnership is equally strategic. It elevates its technology offerings to include some of the most sought-after systems in the industry, enabling it to meet the evolving needs of its clients. "The addition of their full technology portfolio will allow Burkhart to continue to provide our clients with innovative digital solutions and clinical products to help practices streamline workflows and deliver the best patient experience," commented Phillip Salerno, Burkhart's Director of Equipment, Merchandise & Technology.

Overcoming the Adoption Hurdle: The Service Linchpin

Perhaps the most significant aspect of this partnership is its potential to lower the barriers that prevent many dental practices from embracing digital technology. Research shows that while dentists are interested in the benefits of digital workflows, the high initial investment, steep learning curve, and fear of practice disruption are major deterrents.

The success of advanced technology like a CAD/CAM system hinges not just on the hardware itself, but on the quality of the installation, training, and ongoing technical support. This is where Burkhart's model becomes critical. The company’s network of service technicians and practice consultants provides the on-the-ground support necessary to guide a practice through the entire adoption process.

This 'beyond the sale' support system is designed to address the key pain points of digital implementation. By offering everything from office design and financing to staff training and workflow integration, the partnership provides a safety net for practitioners making a significant capital investment. This integrated support structure is crucial for ensuring that the technology is not only purchased but is also used to its full potential, ultimately delivering a tangible return on investment through improved efficiency and patient outcomes.

The collaboration between a technology giant and a service-centric distributor reflects a maturing market where success is defined not just by product innovation, but by the ability to ensure seamless and successful customer implementation. As dentistry continues its digital evolution, such partnerships that combine state-of-the-art tools with robust, localized support will be essential in shaping the future of dental care delivery.