Voices of Dental IT: A DIA Series

Windows 10 End of Support: What Dental Practices Need to Know Now

As part of its mission to advance oral healthcare through innovation, security, and collaboration, the Dental Integrators Association proudly features thought leadership contributed by its member organizations. Each article in this series offers practical insights, shared experiences, and timely strategies from those working at the intersection of IT and dentistry. Together, we are building a smarter, stronger community—one idea at a time.

On October 14, 2025, Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10. If your dental practice is still running Windows 10, you need to make critical decisions now about your technology infrastructure, HIPAA compliance, and patient data security. This article explains what Windows 10 end of support means for your practice and outlines your options.

What Does “End of Support” Mean?

Windows 10 end of support means Microsoft will no longer provide security updates, technical support, or bug fixes.

For dental practices, this creates serious risks:

HIPAA Compliance Violations – Running unsupported software with patient data may violate HIPAA requirements

Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities – Unpatched systems are prime targets for ransomware and data breaches

Insurance Issues – Cyber liability insurance may not cover breaches on unsupported systems

Software Compatibility – Some dental software vendors may stop supporting Windows 10

Check your Windows version now: Go to Settings > System > About. If you see “Windows 10,” take action immediately.

Your Three Options as a Dental Practice

Option 1: Purchase Extended Security Updates (ESU)

Microsoft offers Extended Security Updates for Windows 10, providing critical security patches for up to three years (until October 2028).

Pricing:

  • Year 1: $60-80 per device
  • Year 2: $120-140 per device
  • Year 3: $240-260 per device

Pros: Maintains security, buys time for planned upgrades, preserves dental imaging compatibility

Cons: Increasingly expensive, temporary solution, doesn’t address aging hardware

Best For: Practices with newer computers (3-5 years old) that need time due to budget constraints or dental software compatibility concerns

Option 2: Replace PCs and Upgrade to Windows 11

Purchase new computers with Windows 11 pre-installed and migrate your dental practice data.

Investment:

  • Basic dental workstation: $800-$1,200
  • Advanced workstation (imaging): $1,200-$2,400
  • Migration services: $200-$500 per computer

Pros: Modern secure OS, better performance, new warranty, long-term solution (5-7 years)

Cons: Upfront investment, potential dental software compatibility issues, staff training needed

Best For: Practices with computers older than 5 years or ready to modernize their dental IT infrastructure

Option 3: Stay on Windows 10 Without Updates (Non-Compliant)

Continue using Windows 10 without security updates or support.

Critical Risks:

  • HIPAA compliance violations with patient data
  • Severe security vulnerabilities – exponentially increasing breach risk
  • Cyber insurance may not cover incidents on unsupported systems
  • Dental software vendors will stop support for Windows 10
  • Professional liability exposure if a breach occurs

Best For: This option is not recommended for any dental practice handling patient data. The risks far outweigh any short-term cost savings.

Making the Right Decision for Your Practice

Immediate Action Steps:

1. Inventory Your Systems (This Week)

  • Identify all Windows 10 computers
  • Determine hardware age
  • List critical dental software
  • Note imaging equipment connections

2. Assess Your Dental Imaging (Within 2 Weeks)

  • Check X-ray system manufacturer/model
  • Verify Windows 11 driver availability
  • Contact imaging software vendor about compatibility

Evaluate Options (Within 30 Days)

  • Calculate ESU costs
  • Get hardware replacement quotes from your IT provider
  • Consider budget and timeline

Timeline Recommendations

If Choosing ESU:

  • Immediately: Deploy ESU licenses
  • Within 30 days: Develop 1-3 year replacement plan

If Choosing Hardware Replacement:

  • Immediately: Schedule technology assessment with your IT provider
  • Within 60-90 days: Begin phased replacement
  • Within 120 days: Complete migration

Recommended Hybrid Approach:

  • Phase 1: Purchase ESU for all systems
  • Phase 2: Replace oldest/critical systems first
  • Phase 3: Replace remaining computers over 6-12 months

Key Considerations for Dental Imaging Systems

Dental imaging equipment requires special attention during Windows 11 transitions. Many practices face compatibility challenges with X-ray sensors, panoramic systems, and CBCT scanners that were designed for older operating systems.

Before making your decision:

  • Contact your imaging equipment manufacturer about Windows 11 compatibility
  • Verify driver availability for your specific models
  • Test imaging software in a Windows 11 environment if possible
  • Have a contingency plan for legacy equipment that may not be compatible
  • Work with an IT provider experienced in dental imaging integration

Working with Your IT Provider

This transition requires expertise in dental-specific technology. Your IT provider should offer:

Assessment Services

  • Complete system inventory
  • Dental imaging compatibility testing
  • ESU licensing and deployment
  • Hardware recommendations tailored to dental workflows

Migration Support

  • Complete data backup and verification
  • Windows 11 installation and configuration
  • Dental software migration and testing
  • Imaging system setup and optimization
  • Staff training and documentation

Ongoing Compliance and Security

  • HIPAA-compliant monitoring and maintenance
  • Regular security updates and patches
  • Backup and disaster recovery solutions
  • Cybersecurity protection designed for healthcare

Don’t Risk Your Practice’s Security and Compliance

Continuing on unsupported Windows 10 exposes your dental practice to ransomware, data breaches, HIPAA violations, insurance issues, and reputation damage. The question isn’t whether to act-it’s how quickly you can implement a solution that protects your patients, your practice, and your peace of mind.

Get Expert Help

You don’t have to navigate this transition alone. Working with an IT provider who specializes in dental practice technology ensures your transition is smooth, compliant, and minimally disruptive to your operations.

The Dental Integrators Association connects dental practices with experienced IT professionals who understand the unique requirements of dental technology, from practice management software to digital imaging systems.

This article was contributed by NOVA Computer Solutions, a proud member of the Dental Integrators Association (DIA), a national network of specialized IT providers committed to advancing oral healthcare through a unified community that drives excellence, security, and innovation.

Need a trusted IT provider for your dental practice? Find a DIA member in your region at https://dentalintegrators.org/member-locator/

Have insights to add or questions to explore? Join the conversation on LinkedIn and tag @Dental Integrators Association

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