---
title: About Dental Direct Care | United Dental Co-op
description: Discover how United Dental Co-Op empowers independent dentists with the Direct Care model, enhancing patient experiences and ensuring autonomy in dental practices.
---
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Homepage
- [Direct Dental Care](https://www.uniteddentalcoop.com/about)
- [The Playbook](https://www.uniteddentalcoop.com/playbook?hsLang=en)
[Join the Co-op](https://www.uniteddentalcoop.com/?hsLang=en#Contact)
- [Direct Dental Care](https://www.uniteddentalcoop.com/about)
- [The Playbook](https://www.uniteddentalcoop.com/playbook?hsLang=en)
[Join the Co-op](https://www.uniteddentalcoop.com/?hsLang=en#Contact)
# About Dental Direct Care
At United Dental Co-Op (UDC), we believe that dentists should have the freedom to run their practices on their own terms—without insurance companies dictating patient care. That’s why we help independent dental practices transition to and thrive under the Direct Care model, a membership-based approach where patients pay dentists directly for high-quality, personalized dental care. The patient experience
+97%
Patient Retention Rate
45%
Reduce Overhead
+98%
Increased Revenue
## Challenges with the Current System
### Complex System
Complicated insurance reimbursements that delay payments and cut into revenue.
### High Costs
High administrative costs for billing, coding, and claims processing.
### Less Autonomy
Forcing dentists to meet insurance quotas rather than prioritize patient needs.
### What is the Direct Care Model
The Direct Care model allows dentists to offer affordable, membership-based care where patients pay a flat monthly or annual fee for routine visits, preventive care, and discounted services. This eliminates the middleman and creates a simpler, more predictable business model that benefits both patients and providers.
With Direct Care, dentists can provide better care, increase financial stability, reduce administrative headaches, and strengthen patient relationship—creating a Win-Win for the patient and practice alike.
### Our Mission
To empower independent dental practices to thrive by providing innovative solutions, fostering collaboration, and championing the Direct Care model, enabling dentists to deliver exceptional patient experiences and build sustainable, patient-centered practices.
## Our values
### Independence
Supporting dentists in maintaining autonomy while achieving success.
### Collaboration
Building a community of professionals working together to share resources and knowledge.
### Innovation
Leveraging modern strategies and tools to simplify practice management and enhance care.
### Integrity
Acting with transparency, honesty, and a commitment to the well-being of our members.
### Excellence
Driving exceptional outcomes for practices and the patients they serve.
### Sustainability
Promoting long-term financial and operational stability for independent dental practices.
## Our team
Meet the awesome folks who make all of this possible day to day
Dr. Thomas Stillwell
Tamara Stillwell
## A Future Where Dentists Thrive
United Dental Co-Op is a partner committed to **helping independent dentists reclaim control** of their businesses and provide **exceptional, patient-focused care** without the restrictions of insurance.
Join us and be part of the future of dentistry—where dentists and patients win together.
[Get in touch](https://www.uniteddentalcoop.com/?hsLang=en#Contact)
[](https://www.uniteddentalcoop.com/?hsLang=en)
***Powering Dental Direct Care***
899 Congress Pkwy N
Athens, TN 37303
423.240.2898