If you’ve noticed your supply bills creeping higher, you're not alone. Tariffs, inflation, and vendor markups are sparking major frustration for dentists across the country, especially for independent practices. But before you panic or start stockpiling gloves like it’s 2020 all over again, let’s take a breath and talk strategy. This post dives into what’s actually happening with supply costs and more importantly, how to protect your margins without compromising quality care.
What's Causing Dental Supply Prices to Rise?
Supply chain disruptions, new tariffs, and economic uncertainty are making materials more expensive across the board. Some of the most affected items include:
- Anesthetics (especially those made in Canada)
- Imported lab cases
- Gray market supplies that were once cheap but now match or exceed domestic pricing
And while the price hikes aren’t massive across the board, even small increases can add up fast—especially if your team is over-ordering or storing expired inventory.
Should You Be Concerned? (Spoiler: Don’t Panic)
Yes, some prices are increasing. No, that doesn’t mean you need to hoard cotton rolls like it’s the end of days.
Here’s the deal:
- Overhead fluctuation is normal, especially with inflation.
- The supply market will likely stabilize.
- Smart buying and systems matter more than panic buying.
Think of it like the stock market: rash moves usually cost you more than they save.
What Elite Practices Are Doing Instead
At Dental A Team, we’ve seen that high-performing practices handle rising costs by focusing on:
1. Inventory control: Only buying what’s needed, when it’s needed
2. Eliminating bulk-buying waste: No more expired boxes sitting in closets
3. Buying smarter, not more: Leveraging buying groups like Synergy Dental Partners to access DSO-level discounts, without giving up your autonomy or rep relationships
Real-World Numbers: How Much Can You Actually Save?
Let’s run the math for a million-dollar practice:
- Typical monthly supplies budget (at 5% of collections): ~$4,200
- Savings through smarter purchasing (estimated 25%): ~$1,000/month
- That’s $12,000/year—without compromising care
Those savings could fund:
- A virtual assistant to manage insurance claims
- An office refresh or new technology
- A raise for your rockstar team
How Synergy Helps Independent Dentists Compete
Synergy Dental Partners is a buying group built by dentists for dentists. They negotiate DSO-level pricing on everything from gloves and composites to implants and lab cases. Here’s what you get:
- 25-30% supply cost savings
- No ordering minimums or bulk requirements
- Keep your rep relationships
- Fast shipping and no-hassle returns
- One platform, one point of contact, less stress
It’s basically Costco pricing without needing to buy 400 crowns at once.
Don’t Overreact, Just Get Proactive
You don’t need to radically overhaul your supply systems—but you do need to be intentional. Treat your supply strategy like a CEO would:
- Know your numbers
- Use the right partners
- Reinvest your savings into your practice and team
The supply market will continue to shift. The dentists who win will be the ones who plan, pivot, and protect their margins—without burning out.
Want to see how much you could save? Check out Synergy Dental Partners and be sure to mention Dental A Team for exclusive offers.
Want help building your profitable, low-stress practice?
Let our Dental A Team consultants help you install systems, decrease stress, and increase profitability. Schedule a call with us today!
Don't forget to check out our podcast for more tips on reducing dental supply costs.
Last updated: July 2025
Author: Jacintha Ham, Dental A Team