Although the Tariff Act of 1789 was signed into law by President George Washington to protect the United States against unfair competition from foreign markets on imported goods coming into the country, only recently has the topic become relevant to the majority. On February 1, 2025, Donald J. Trump implemented a series of tariffs on imported goods from Canada, China, and Mexico, substantially disrupting the U.S. trade policy and the cost of goods. Even the dental industry has been affected.
More people have searched for ‘tariffs’ online in recent weeks than ever before. With such a huge impact on our wallets, it is little wonder that we see a sudden interest.
Trump’s Tariff Increases
The February tariff increase resulted in a 25% tariff on most imports from Canada and Mexico and a 10% tariff added on Chinese goods. Trump increased the amount to 20% in March. Upset with the rising costs, China retaliated with retaliatory tariffs on products exported from the U.S.
By April, the tariff on Chinese products had risen to 145% with the country’s 125% “reciprocal tariff” and a 20% “fentanyl tariff.”
For consumers, the tariffs could cause the typical U.S. household an additional $1,200 in costs annually due to higher costs. This number does not include potential cost increases for dental and medical care.
Tariffs in the Dental Industry
Dr. Steven Davidowtiz at Luxury Dentistry NYC says the tariffs have affected costs at his practice, and soon, dental practices will be forced to adjust their pricing structures to compensate. Consumers already struggling to afford dental care could see a tremendous price increase. This would prohibit them from receiving dental care as needed or force them into debt.
Beat tariff increases by scheduling a dental appointment now. A dental exam can determine if your teeth are healthy or schedule you for needed treatments. If you have put off care for any reason, it’s time to stop procrastinating. Schedule your appointment and take care of your teeth. Waiting any longer could result in considerably higher costs for the same dental care.
The National Association of Dental Laboratories (NADL) conducted research indicating that 40% of all dental equipment and materials are sourced from overseas manufacturers. The U.S. imports from around 40 countries. With our dependence on global supply chains, the tariffs certainly cause concern.
Could domestic sources come to the rescue? Not likely.
Imported dental equipment and devices cost a fraction of those produced and purchased domestically. The tariff increase still does not offset the drastic price difference between imported versus domestic items.
Additional Ways Tariffs Affect Dental Costs
Apart from the increase in equipment, products, and goods, other problems have also been created that must be considered.
- Higher Operating Costs: Dental practices across the U.S. have seen an increase in operational costs since the recent tariff increase. Many practices have passed on the added costs to consumers already, while others likely will very soon.
- Supply Chain Disruptions: Supply chain disruptions are highly likely in the wake of Trump’s tariffs. Patients could experience delayed services as dental practices wait to receive critical equipment and materials, including prosthetics and other high-tech devices. Patients would be forced to resort to emergency services or take other drastic measures until they can proceed with their services.
Tariffs and Dental Insurance
The tariffs affect dental insurance plans for many Americans. Dental insurance providers have already begun to adjust premiums and coverage rates, increase copays, and adjust coverage. This forces consumers to pay for more dental services out-of-pocket or avoid them altogether if they cannot afford the costs.
- Both companies, employees, and private individuals are affected by increased premiums, coverage rates, and copays.
- Insurers are considering limiting coverage options on many of their plans, especially as the costs rise. This could require patients to spend more money out-of-pocket than ever before.
- Some insurance providers may focus heavily on preventative care and how routine dental visits can reduce dependency on expensive procedures. Dentists worldwide agree that preventive care should be promoted.
Benefits of Preventive Care
Dentists worldwide appreciate how preventive dental care is now a top priority. Preventing oral health problems is easier than treating them, and much less expensive. No one wants to walk around with cavities, misshapen teeth, discolored teeth, or other oral health concerns. Preventing those issues starts with caring for the teeth.
When more promotion and a strong emphasis are placed on preventive dental care, more people can better understand its benefits and why they should make dental care their priority.
Some of the benefits of preventive dental care include:
- Insurance companies save money and keep consumers happy
- Reduced need for emergency dentistry or expensive procedures
- Maintain a healthy smile
- Fewer dental visits
- Lowered risk of dental emergencies, expensive procedures, and treatments
- Prevent oral health problems
- Promote a healthy, beautiful smile for individuals of all ages
- Increase patient happiness
- Patients better understand the importance of visiting their dentist every six months for exams and dental cleanings
- Patients understand dental care options and procedures available if needed, to keep their smiles beautiful
- Keep dental insurance costs low and coverage high
- A smart investment for insurance companies, patients
Focusing on preventative care can benefit nearly everyone. It should be emphasized now as we struggle to maintain affordable costs, and when the ordeal is over. It is the best strategy for a beautiful, healthy smile and fewer visits to the dentist’s office.
Tariffs Affect Dental Costs
Every person, industry, company, and service manufacturer or provider in America is affected by the tariff increases, including dental care providers and patients. It is still unclear how much impact we’ll feel, but its effects are certainly rearing their ugly head already. Do not allow the increases to affect your dental health. Practice preventative care while your teeth are still healthy. Just follow the tips above, and you can reduce your dependence on dental procedures. You should also consider scheduling appointments now for an exam.
