U.S. tariffs and Canadian dentistry: How to shield your practice

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The recent imposition of U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports, including critical dental products such as composite resins, metal alloys, digital scanners, and even consumer goods like toothpaste and dental floss, poses significant economic and public health challenges for Canada’s dental industry.1 Canada heavily relies on U.S. imports for essential dental equipment and materials, meaning these … Read more

Selling in uncertain times?  Lawyer up and find your peace

Deals still get done—even when the world feels upside down. With the right team and mindset, you can sell your practice on your terms, no matter what’s happening out there.

The outside world seems to be combusting nowadays: Countries are engaged in tariff wars. Stock markets are extremely volatile. Conflict rages on in Ukraine and the Middle East. Global climate change impacts our daily lives.  AI is sparking ethical debates. We’re in the midst of a very close federal election. Residential real estate sales across … Read more

The secret to sustainable growth in dentistry? Marketing smarter

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Every dentist wants more new patients, but not every practice knows where they’re really coming from—or how to consistently bring them in. In today’s digital world, the answer isn’t in billboards, radio ads, or local coupon books. It’s online, where nearly all patient journeys begin. Where new patients actually come from According to BrightEdge Research, … Read more

Are DSOs here to stay? Here’s what dentists need to know

As DSOs expand across the U.S. and Canada, dentists need to stay on top of trends to keep pace. (iStock)

Love them or hate them, Dental Service Organizations (DSOs) are here to stay—and they’re only going to get bigger.  Who benefits from the rise of DSOs? While many private practitioners are skeptical about DSOs, the reality is that lots of patients and retiring/selling dentists tend to favor them. However, selling to a DSO isn’t always a … Read more

A turning point in trade: U.S. tariffs, global volatility, and what it means for Canadian dentists

Canada and Mexico were notably exempted from these April measures, but not entirely untouched. (iStock)

On April 2, 2025, the White House unveiled what it referred to as “Liberation Day,” announcing the most aggressive protectionist policy shift since the 1930s. In a sweeping press conference, President Donald Trump introduced a 10% universal tariff on all U.S. imports, effective April 5, alongside a system of “reciprocal tariffs” targeting approximately 60 countries. Some of … Read more

Patterson shareholders approve $4.1B acquisition, nearing private company status

Patterson is closer to becoming a private company. (iStock)

Patterson Companies is moving closer to becoming a private company after its shareholders approved its acquisition by investment firm Patient Square Capital at a special meeting on Tuesday. “The Patterson team is excited about this partnership with Patient Square Capital and beginning our next chapter as a private company,” said Don Zurbay, Patterson’s president and … Read more

Term vs. permanent life insurance: What every dentist needs to know

choosing the right type can be overwhelming

Life insurance is one of the most important financial tools available, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. As a dentist, you’ve spent years building your career, accumulating assets, and securing your financial future—but what happens to your family, your business, and your wealth if something happens to you? Many dentists recognize the importance … Read more

Smart budgeting for dentists | Weekly Wisdom

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Being a dentist doesn’t guarantee financial success. Sana Arshad, CPA, MAcc, Founder & CEO at Arshad Dental Consulting CPA Professional Corporation, shares some smart budgeting tips for newly graduated dentists to consider as they begin their career. The smart financial decisions you make now will (literally) pay off later. Subscribe to Oral Health’s weekly e-newsletter to … Read more

Thinking of retiring? You need to plan ahead

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Take the (fictitious) case of established dentist Dr. Emily Smith. She read some articles and heard through colleagues and professional presenters that it takes between 2 to 3 years of planning to have a smooth sale. Why so long? Because it takes time for any selling dentist to make sure: (i) the practice is in … Read more

Tariffs – What to do as a dental professional in Canada?

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Tariffs present challenges and opportunities. Rather than waste time worrying about when and how much tariffs will be, consider the following actions which will help to improve your practice’s financial health. 1) Buy real estate, specifically your own dental building, especially if there is a real estate crash due to a recession. This will enhance your … Read more

Essential tax strategies for dental professionals | Episode 24

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David Chong Yen joins Dr. Jordan Soll to discuss strategies to enhance dental practice cash flow and maximize its value. He emphasizes the importance of tax planning and gives practical examples that dentists can implement for a successful practice sale down the line. Newcom Media Inc · Episode 24 – Essential tax strategies for dental … Read more

The Importance of Goal Setting for Your Dental Practice

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Let’s review where your practice stands compared to others across Canada. Nearly half of dentists reported having between 1000-2000 active patients at their practice with the average revenue per patient being $1,189. Does that match your office or are you in the percent with less patients and lower revenue? Nearly 40% of dentists have an … Read more

Let’s Invest: Dental Real-Estate Guide

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Talking to new dentists or even dental students, the vast majority will bring up income properties as one of their goals. To start 2023, in the first quarter alone, investors made up 30% of home purchases according to the Bank of Canada. Despite higher interest rates there remains a lot of interest around real estate … Read more

23 Guidelines for Happiness & Success: A Professional’s Playbook

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At some point, dental professionals question why they do what they do and wonder if the grass is greener on the other side. Higher interest rates, shortage of staff, more competition and daily stress take their toll. Dentists sometimes need a compass. The guide below may help dentists when they get to the fork in … Read more

Episode 12: Financial Path to Clinic Ownership

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Gurtej Varn, leading Wealth Advisor for dentists in Canada, shares the financial aspects dentists need to consider when looking to buy and own a clinic. Newcom Media Inc · Episode 12 – Financial Path to Clinic Ownership Read the audio transcript below: Dr. Luisa Schuldt (LS): Hi, everyone. Welcome to Brush Up, presented by Oral … Read more

What Happens When Everything Goes Right?

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Many successful dentists begin their journey at an international accredited program. What’s often misunderstood is the cost and time associated with pursuing an out-of-country education overseas. It should come as no surprise that the cost is great but the outcome is equally so. Many students who attend these universities do so without much financial assistance … Read more

Maximizing Wealth and Minimizing Tax: A Guide to Corporate Tax Planning for Dentists

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Navigating the intricate world of financial planning can be a challenge for dentists. This article provides a brief overview of the financial structures that dentists can leverage to protect their assets, reduce tax liabilities, and efficiently transfer wealth to future generations. Dentistry Professional Corporation (DPC) Establishing a DPC entails transitioning from an individual to a … Read more

Tax Saving and Planning To Do’s Before 2024

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Saving taxes involve planning and taking action before the tax savings window closes. Trying to save taxes when completing your personal or corporate tax returns is often too late, like closing the barn door after the horses have left. There are tax planning and saving ideas dentists should consider implementing before 2024. 1. Alternative Minimum … Read more