The verdict in three sentences
For a standard practice (1 to 3 practitioners), a dental SaaS is unbeatable: 90 to 250 EUR/month/practitioner, with scheduling, records and claim transmission included, zero build. Custom software targets multi-practitioner dental centres with a specific patient journey and deep imaging integration. The switch pays off beyond 5-6 chairs or a network model, for 20,000 to 50,000 EUR of development.
Dental SaaS versus dedicated development
SaaS handles compliance and updates; custom absorbs the workflows that don't fit a vendor's boxes.
| Criterion | Dental SaaS | Custom build (Kolonell) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry cost | 0 EUR | 20,000 to 50,000 EUR |
| Monthly cost | 90 to 250 EUR/practitioner | Maintenance 350 to 800 EUR/mo |
| Scheduling + SMS reminders | Included | Custom, multi-calendar |
| Patient records | Standard | Specific fields |
| Imaging (sensor, pano) | Partner interfaces | Deep integration |
| Insurance quotes + claims | Included | Via approved module |
| Multi-site / network reporting | Limited option | Native |
| Code ownership | No | Yes |
Automated SMS reminders remain the strongest ROI argument: a practice moving from 12 % to 8 % missed appointments recovers immediate revenue, whatever the tool.
Modules and quantified impact
| Module | 2026 stake | Custom order of magnitude |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-practitioner scheduling | Chair fill rate | 4,000 to 9,000 EUR |
| Automated SMS reminders | -20 to -30 % missed appts | 2,000 to 5,000 EUR |
| Records + imaging | Centralised diagnosis | 6,000 to 14,000 EUR |
| Quotes + claim transmission | Insurance coverage | 4,000 to 9,000 EUR |
| Patient portal | Online booking | 4,000 to 10,000 EUR |
| Annual maintenance | Compliance + updates | 15 to 20 % of build |
Mini case study
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Dr Lemoine runs a 6-practitioner centre in Lille. On SaaS he pays 6 licences at 190 EUR/month, i.e. 13,680 EUR/year, with an imperfect shared calendar. Dedicated development at 38,000 EUR plus 6,200 EUR/year maintenance gives him an optimised scheduling engine and a patient portal. Moving from 14 % to 9 % missed appointments on 620,000 EUR of chair revenue recovers around 31,000 EUR/year. The custom build pays back in under 18 months.
FAQ
Is SaaS enough for a 1-3 practitioner practice? Yes, easily. At 90-250 EUR/month/practitioner it covers scheduling, records, imaging and claims without tying up cash. Custom would be unjustified.
What is the real gain from SMS reminders? As a 2026 order of magnitude, automated reminders cut missed appointments by 20 to 30 %. For an average practice that means several thousand euros of chair revenue a year.
Does custom handle claim transmission? Yes, via an approved module integrated into the build. You don't rewrite the certification, you connect it. Budget 4,000 to 9,000 EUR.
Can sensors and panoramics be connected? SaaS offers partner interfaces; custom allows deeper imaging integration. The budget depends on your equipment, often 6,000 to 14,000 EUR.
From how many chairs should I switch to custom? In practice, beyond 5-6 chairs or for a multi-site network, when SaaS fees and reporting limits exceed the cost of an owned asset.
Let's scope your project. Tell us the number of practitioners, your priorities (scheduling, imaging, patient portal) and an indicative budget. Detailed quote within 48 h. WhatsApp +221 77 596 93 33.
Mohamed Bah
Fondateur, Kolonell
Passionate about digital and entrepreneurship in Africa, Mohamed has been helping Sénégalese businesses with their digital transformation since 2020. Founder of Kolonell, he believes every SME deserves a professional and accessible online présence.
