How to Update Open Dental Software (Step-by-Step)

How to Update Open Dental Software (and When You Should Be Doing It)

If you’ve ever searched “how to update Open Dental software,” you’re already ahead of the curve.

Keeping Open Dental updated is one of the simplest ways to:

• unlock new time-saving features

• reduce bugs and errors

• keep your team working more efficiently

And yet, many offices delay updates for months (or even years), usually out of fear that something will break or change unexpectedly.

Let’s clear that up.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through:

• how to update Open Dental software step by step

• the difference between stable and beta versions

• and when you should be updating to get the most benefit with the least risk

First: Is It Free to Update Open Dental?

Yes.

Updating Open Dental is completely free for customers on support.

There’s no upgrade fee, no hidden cost, and no downside to staying current, which is why there’s really no good reason not to update regularly.

How to Update Open Dental Software (Step by Step)

Important note:
This update process applies to locally hosted Open Dental databases.
Open Dental Cloud users are updated automatically or can schedule updates with support.

To update Open Dental:

• In the Main Menu, click Help → Update

• Review your current version at the top of the Update window

• Click Check for Updates

• Choose the version you want to install

• Click Install

That’s it.

The entire process is straightforward, and in most cases takes only a few minutes.

Understanding Your Update Options (This Part Matters)

When you click Check for Updates, you may see up to three options.

1. New Build for Current Version

• Includes bug fixes only

• No new features

• Very low risk

This is ideal if you recently updated but want the cleanest version of what you’re already running.

2. New Stable Version (Recommended)

Fully tested

• Includes new features and enhancements

• Considered safe for everyday use

👉 This is the version I recommend offices update to regularly.

Stable versions are where Open Dental releases improvements that actually save teams time and reduce friction.

3. New Beta Version (Use With Caution)

Contains the newest features

• May still have bugs

• Best for offices willing to test and give feedback

Beta updates can be useful, but they’re optional. Most practices should stick with stable unless they have a specific reason not to.

When Should You Update Open Dental?

This is where most offices go wrong.

My Recommendation: Update Monthly

I treat Open Dental updates as part of my end-of-month process.

Why?

• New stable versions are released frequently

• Features often address real workflow pain points

• Waiting means missing out on time-saving improvements

Updating monthly keeps your software:

• current

• predictable

• aligned with how Open Dental is designed to function

And because updates are free and easy, there’s very little downside.

Why Delaying Updates Costs Offices Time

When offices don’t update regularly, they often:

• miss features that reduce clicks or manual work

• continue using outdated workflows

• struggle when they do finally update because too much changed at once

Small, consistent updates are far less disruptive than massive catch-up updates.

Best Practices Before You Update

To make updates smooth and stress-free:

• Update after hours or during low-volume times

• Make sure backups are running properly

• Let your team know changes may be coming

• Review release notes for new features

This turns updates into a routine, not a disruption.

One More Thing: Where to Learn What Changed

After updating:

• Use the Help (?) icon inside Open Dental to view version-specific documentation

• Look for new features that may replace old workarounds

• Update your SOPs so your team actually benefits from the changes

New features only save time if your team knows how to use them.

Final Thoughts

If you’re wondering how to update Open Dental software, the answer is simple.

If you’re wondering when to update, the answer is even simpler.

Update to the newest stable version, monthly.

It’s free.
It’s easy.
And it keeps your office from falling behind on tools designed to make your day easier.

That consistency adds up, in fewer clicks, less frustration, and better workflows over time.

Want help rolling updates into your systems? 👉🏻 SKF Practice Solutions

Updates are most powerful when paired with:

• updated SOPs

• team training

• and intentional workflow improvements

That’s how software stops feeling reactive and starts working for your practice.