What do I need before updating Open Dental?

Tell your IT firm, confirm you have recent server backups and access to the server, and have an admin username and password for both the server and Open Dental.

How do I back up Open Dental before an update?

Log out of Open Dental on all workstations, log into the server, copy the mysql folder inside your mysql/data directory, and rename the copy to something memorable like PracticeName_Date_Backup.

Should I install the stable or beta version of Open Dental?

Stay on the most stable version. Beta versions contain the newest features but likely have bugs that cannot be fixed immediately, so discuss beta with your IT firm before installing.

Do workstations need to be updated separately?

Once the server is updated, each workstation detects the newer version when Open Dental is next launched and prompts you to update, which usually takes a minute or two.

How To Update Open Dental

Open Dental is a popular, well-regarded practice management software. Like all programs, it needs updating from time to time as Open Dental adds features and fixes bugs to keep the software solid and stable. Your IT firm is often involved in Open Dental updates, but you can do it independently if you prefer.

01Before you start

Direct answerNotify your IT firm, confirm backups and server access, and have admin credentials for the server and Open Dental.

1
Tell your IT firmFirst and most critical: inform Darkhorse or your IT firm that you will be performing this update.
2
Confirm backups and accessMake sure you have recent backups of your server and access to the server running Open Dental. If you aren’t sure you have access, contact your IT firm.

You will also need: an admin username and password for the server, and an admin-level username and password for Open Dental.

02Back up your data before you update

Direct answerLog everyone out, then copy the mysql folder in mysql/data and rename the copy.

1
Log out everywhereLog out of Open Dental on all workstations. If possible, restart them so no inactive Open Dental sessions are hiding in the background.
2
Log into the serverRemote or log into the server.
3
Find the data folderNavigate to your data folder. You should see a mysql/data folder on the C drive or another lettered drive; this is your database storage.
4
Copy the mysql folderInside mysql/data you will see another mysql folder. Right-click it and select Copy.
5
Paste the copyRight-click an empty part of the window and select Paste. A progress bar appears, then a new folder named MYSQL (COPY).
6
Rename the backupRight-click the new folder and rename it to something memorable. We recommend PracticeName_Date_Backup.

03Update Open Dental on the server

Direct answerRun Help > Update, check for updates, and install the stable version.

1
Open Open DentalFind Open Dental on the server, usually via a desktop shortcut.
2
Log in as adminLog in with your admin Open Dental credentials and make sure you can see your schedule.
3
Open the updaterIn the upper toolbar on the right-hand side, select Help, then Update.
4
Check for updatesClick Check for Updates. This connects to Open Dental’s update server to see which updates you qualify for.
5
Install your chosen versionClick Install next to the version you choose. Stay on the most stable version; a beta version has unknown issues that can’t be fixed immediately.
6
Close Open Dental on workstationsA dialog may ask you to shut down workstations, because Open Dental must be closed everywhere during an update. If any system besides the server is listed, go close Open Dental on it, then click Continue.
7
Let it downloadIf no workstations are listed, or you’ve closed them and clicked Continue, the download begins.
8
Run the Setup WizardWhen the download finishes, click OK. Open Dental closes; wait for the Setup Wizard and follow its prompts.
9
Finish the wizardOn the final step, click Finish.
10
Run as administratorRight-click the Open Dental icon and choose Run as administrator.
11
Update the databaseYou will be prompted to update the database. When it completes, log in as usual.
12
Accept the license agreementDepending on certain factors (you updated to version 21.3 or later, you are an admin user with the Admin Setup permission, and you haven’t agreed yet), you may be prompted to agree to the License Agreement.

Build version

A minor build for your current version, with the latest bug fixes.

Stable version

Has passed beta testing and is considered stable, with new and enhanced features.

Beta version

Newest features, likely some bugs. Discuss with Darkhorse Tech or your IT firm first.

Good to knowOnce the server is updated, other computers update automatically when Open Dental next opens. An update can also be triggered from any workstation running a higher version, which can happen when a multi-location office connects to multiple databases from one workstation. Some updates automatically back up the database; large organizations with a comprehensive backup strategy can ask Open Dental support to disable this. Automatic backups are created in MyISAM format, so offices using InnoDB that restore from one after a failed update will need to repeat the database conversion process.

04You’ve updated the server. Now what?

Next, update your workstations. With Open Dental closed on all of them, go to any station and launch Open Dental. It should detect the newer version on the server and prompt you to update. Proceed through the prompts (usually a minute or two), then launch Open Dental and confirm your data is there. You now know how to update Open Dental.

About Darkhorse Tech

Whether you’re just starting out or a well-established organization, Darkhorse Tech has the experience and technology to help get you moving, cut costs, and streamline your operations with unlimited IT support. We help you do what you do best: provide top-notch care and service for patients, not deal with IT problems, time spent on hold with technical support, or complicated technical mishaps. Our additional security services include:

Unlimited remote and/or on-site IT support of all your hardware and software
Improved network performance and security
HIPAA-compliant off-site and local backup service (Darkhorse Secure Backup)
Managed antivirus, anti-malware, and anti-ransomware (Darkhorse Security Products)
Compliance and security law standards
Microsoft security patch management
Vendor management: we will be on the phone, not your employees
Secure, remote access to your office
Firewall management
Network management
Long-term planning and budgeting

Contact us anytime to learn more about our dental-specific solutions and unlimited support packages. Read our reviews or call us today at 800.868.4504.

Let’s get started

Book a complimentary consultation with Darkhorse Tech.

Complimentary Consultation