Smarter payments, stronger practices

As dentistry continues to evolve, so do patient expectations, especially when it comes to the financial experience. Today’s patients want the same convenience, transparency, and flexibility from their dental office that they receive from nearly every other consumer interaction in their lives. At the same time, practices are navigating rising operational costs, staffing challenges, and increasing pressure to improve efficiency without compromising patient relationships.

Modern payment technology has emerged as more than just a financial tool; it has become an essential part of the patient experience. From automation and digital payment options to compliant surcharging and integrated workflows, innovative payment solutions are helping practices streamline operations, reduce administrative burden, and strengthen patient trust.

Randy Modos is the president and a co-founder of PayJunction, where he provides vision and leadership for the company as it pioneers payment technology and delivers operational efficiencies for businesses. In this Q&A, we explore how payment technology is reshaping dentistry in 2026 and what practices should prioritize to remain efficient, competitive, and patient-centered in an increasingly digital world.

Dr. Maragliano: How can payment technology improve the patient experience and build trust between practices and their clients?

Modos: Payment technology improves the patient experience by removing friction and offering greater transparency. Features like card-on-file and automated receipts help patients understand and manage their financial responsibilities. When the payment process is clear and convenient, it builds trust and reinforces the professionalism of the practice. It also supports stronger patient relationships by reducing awkward or confusing financial conversations.

Dr. Maragliano: How do you envision payment automation reshaping dental practice operations in 2026?

Modos: In 2026, automation will play a central role in simplifying daily operations. Tasks like reconciling payments, sending reminders, and managing outstanding balances can be handled with minimal manual input. This gives staff more time to focus on patient interactions and improves overall efficiency. Dental practices that embrace automation will see fewer errors and a more consistent front-office experience.

Dr. Maragliano: With more states tightening surcharge regulations, what should dentists know about compliance in 2026?

Modos: Dental offices need to stay current with both state laws and card network policies, which don’t always align. Compliance requires clear disclosure and ensuring that surcharges are applied fairly and only when permitted. Technology can help automate much of this, but practices should not rely on tools alone. Oversight and regular policy reviews are still essential to avoid penalties and maintain patient trust.

Dr. Maragliano: How will patient payment choice evolve next year, and why is it a critical component of modern dental care?

Modos: Patients are increasingly expecting flexible, consumer-friendly payment options. Mobile wallets, Buy Now, Pay Later, and digital billing links will become standard in 2026. Offering choice respects the patient’s preferences and financial situation, which can lead to improved satisfaction and loyalty. It also helps practices collect more effectively without putting additional pressure on staff.

Dr. Maragliano: How can dental leaders use payment infrastructure to drive efficiency and team satisfaction?

Modos: Modern payment systems reduce repetitive tasks and minimize the chance of human error. When staff don’t have to manually enter payments or chase down balances, they can focus more on meaningful patient interactions. This not only improves office efficiency but also reduces staff burnout. Investing in the right tools can signal to teams that leadership values their time and professional growth.

Dr. Maragliano: In 2026, what payment innovations should dental practices prioritize to remain competitive and patient-centric?

Modos: To stay competitive, dental practices should focus on innovations that blend financial efficiency with patient convenience. Text-to-pay options offer a low-friction, digital experience that aligns with how many patients prefer to manage bills. At the same time, compliant surcharging can help practices manage rising processing costs and keep more revenue in their systems without compromising patient loyalty. These tools, along with broader integration and automation efforts, will be key to creating a modern payment experience.

The future of dentistry isn’t just about clinical innovation while creating seamless experiences for patients and sustainable workflows for teams. As payment systems become more integrated, automated, and patient-friendly, dental practices have an opportunity to strengthen trust, improve collections, and reduce operational stress simultaneously.

Practices that embrace these technologies thoughtfully and strategically will likely find themselves better positioned to meet rising patient expectations while supporting team satisfaction and long-term growth. Ultimately, modern payment infrastructure is no longer simply a convenience; it is becoming an integral part of delivering exceptional dental care.

Editor's note: This article appeared in the June 2026 print edition of Dental Economics magazine. Dentists in North America are eligible for a complimentary print subscription. Sign up here.