Dentsmart is an automotive service franchise specializing in paintless dent repair, providing fast, cost-effective solutions for hail damage and minor dents.
KEY FRANCHISE STATS
Franchisees
?
13
+
-13%
-13%
Franchise fee
?
$25,000
Investment
?
$79,000 - $111,000
Revenue (AUV)
?
Undisclosed
$0
+
n.a.
n.a.
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Founded in 2001 in Pekin, Illinois, DentSmart has emerged as a leading franchise in the automotive repair industry, specializing in paintless dent repair (PDR). With its headquarters still based in Pekin, the company has expanded its presence across the United States, offering a streamlined and eco-friendly alternative to traditional auto bodywork.
DentSmart began franchising shortly after its inception, enabling entrepreneurs to deliver top-tier PDR services nationwide. DentSmart's services focus on non-invasive dent repair techniques that preserve the original factory finish of vehicles, providing a cost-effective solution for customers.
With over 600 franchises operating across the United States, DentSmart continues to set the standard in the PDR industry. The company's commitment to quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction has solidified its position as a trusted name in automotive repair.
Initial investment
The initial investment required for a Dentsmart franchise is $79,000 - $111,000. That is the total cost you would need to finance if you were to start this franchise. These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.
Type of Expenditure
Amount
Initial Franchise Fee
$25,000
Training Expenses
$2,500 - $3,000
Security and Utility Deposits and Other Costs Associated with Establishing Your Office
$0 – $4,500
Office Equipment, Fixtures, Leasehold Improvements, Whether Purchased or Leased
$1,000
Tools
$10,000
Business Licenses and Other Licenses
$1,500 – $2,500
Software and Hardware
$2,000 – $3,000
Insurance
$2,500 – $3,000
Grand Opening Advertising and Marketing
$2,000
Other Professional Fees
$3,500 – $5,500
Technician Training
$9,000
Additional Funds – 3 Months
$20,000 - $40,000
Total
$79,100 – $110,500
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Type of Expenditure
Amount
Initial Franchise Fee
$25,000
Training Expenses
$2,500 - $3,000
Security and Utility Deposits and Other Costs Associated with Establishing Your Office
$0 – $4,500
Office Equipment, Fixtures, Leasehold Improvements, Whether Purchased or Leased
$1,000
Tools
$10,000
Business Licenses and Other Licenses
$1,500 – $2,500
Software and Hardware
$2,000 – $3,000
Insurance
$2,500 – $3,000
Grand Opening Advertising and Marketing
$2,000
Other Professional Fees
$3,500 – $5,500
Technician Training
$9,000
Additional Funds – 3 Months
$20,000 - $40,000
Total
$79,100 – $110,500
Franchise Disclosure Document
Below is Dentsmart's 2024 Franchise Disclosure Document. Upgrade to Pro or purchase the FDD to view and download the document.
Number of units
Dentsmart had 17 total units in 2024, of which 13 were franchised-owned and 4 company-owned.
Dentsmart LLC provides a structured training program to prepare franchisees for successful business operations. The key programs are as follows:
Initial Owner/Manager Training This program is included in the franchise fee and must be attended by the franchise owner and, if applicable, the initial manager. It takes place over one to two weeks at Dentsmart’s headquarters in Illinois and covers technical dent repair procedures, customer service protocols, and business operations.
Technician Training Separate from the owner’s training, this program focuses specifically on training technicians in paint-free dent repair techniques. The cost is $9,000, and it includes both hands-on practice and theoretical instruction to ensure high service standards.
Ongoing Training and Updates Dentsmart may provide continuous training through updates, new service rollouts, or additional skill development sessions. This ensures that franchisees and their staff remain current with the latest methods and industry advancements.
Territory Protection
Dentsmart LLC provides each franchisee with a designated territory, which is established before the business begins operation. The franchisor defines this territory in the Franchise Agreement to give the franchisee exclusive rights to operate within that specific area.
This ensures that other franchisees will not be allowed to open a Dentsmart business within the same designated territory. However, Dentsmart retains certain rights that limit complete exclusivity.
The franchisor may advertise the brand nationally or regionally, and while these promotions can include the franchisee’s area, they do not constitute direct competition. Additionally, Dentsmart maintains the right to assign additional technicians if needed, ensuring that market demand is met even within an exclusive territory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the royalty fee?
The royalty fee for a Dentsmart franchise is 8.00%. In addition, you would have to pay the advertising (or national brand fund) fee of 2.00%.
What is the total investment?
The initial investment required for a Dentsmart franchise is $79,000 - $111,000. That is the total cost you would need to finance if you were to start this franchise. These costs are provided by the franchisor in the Franchise Disclosure Document.
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee for a Dentsmart franchise is $25,000. This is typically paid upfront as part of the total initial investment, after signature of the Franchise Agreeement.