What’s New This Year?
Open Dental Updates in 2024
As the year wraps up, many dental offices are preparing to update their Open Dental software to the latest version. To make this transition smooth, we’ve compiled a list of key updates and changes introduced in 2024. From streamlining appointment management to enhanced API functionalities, Open Dental continues to deliver innovative features designed to optimize your practice's efficiency.
Major Updates by Version
Version 24.2 (Released October 10, 2024)
Appointments Module:
Insurance Carrier added as a display field in the Recall List.
New appointment view setting: show only days with scheduled appointments or providers in the week view.
Recall messages now support language translations.
Account Module:
Added quarterly and yearly intervals for repeating charges.
Hover over "Ins Est" to view outstanding claim procedures.
Automatically create tertiary claims with the "New Claim" button.
Super Family option introduced in the Account Module for better patient management.
Chart Module:
Perio Charts now include patient birthdates on printed/saved versions.
Default logged-on provider for Perio Charting.
eServices Enhancements:
The new ODTouch app is now stable, supporting printing, integrated texting, and custom eRouting actions.
Improved text message management across platforms (ODTouch, ODMobile).
Preference to send opt-out messages when changing patient text settings.
Miscellaneous:
Merge duplicate allergies with ease.
Integration with Bola AI for enhanced voice-enabled charting.
New permissions to control edits for fees billed to insurance.
Version 24.1 (Released June 25, 2024)
New Feature: Message-to-Pay:
Integrated with the Payment Portal for seamless patient payments via text or email.
Customizable templates for personalized communication.
Account Module Enhancements:
Edit payment plan charges directly from the Account Module grid.
Auto-recalculate secondary claims upon receiving primary claims.
eServices Updates:
ODTouch now supports auto codes and enhanced progress notes.
Patients can delete saved cards in the Payment Portal.
Miscellaneous:
New SkySQL server functionality.
Ability to support multiple lab cases per appointment.
Version 23.3 (Released March 4, 2024)
Account Module:
Deprecated the "Patient Payment Plans" feature.
Added a warning for non-finalized received claims.
eServices Advancements:
Web Sched Recall now considers exclusion days for appointment reminders.
ODTouch improvements include the ability to chart procedures, sign consent forms, and manage prescriptions.
Miscellaneous:
New tools to merge duplicate patients and optimize database maintenance.
Enhanced reporting with filters for "Procedures Not Billed to Insurance."
Version 23.2 (Released October 30, 2023)
Account Module:
Enhanced filters for payment splits and payment window searches.
Payment plan templates for dynamic management.
eServices:
Display blockouts and unscheduled time in ODTouch.
Filter progress notes and add auto notes in ODTouch.
Miscellaneous:
New automation trigger for completing appointments.
Updated internal sheets with enhanced layouts.
Why Update Now?
Updating your Open Dental software ensures you’re leveraging the latest tools and features to streamline your practice management. These updates not only enhance day-to-day functionality but also improve team efficiency, patient experience, and data security.
Preparing for Your Update
Review the Features: Understand which updates will benefit your specific workflow.
Train Your Team: Familiarize staff with new features like ODTouch, enhanced recall management, and Message-to-Pay.
Backup Your Data: Always ensure your data is backed up before any major update.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Open Dental has made significant strides in 2024, from improving patient communication to adding robust API capabilities. If your practice hasn't updated yet, now is the time to take advantage of these powerful enhancements.
For personalized guidance on upgrading your software or implementing these features, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Let’s make 2025 your most efficient year yet!
