Will your new operatory pay for itself?

It uses the same core inputs — loan amortization, daily revenue minus overhead, and tax deduction — that equipment buyers and CPAs use in real financial planning. That said, it is an estimate. Your actual cost of capital, procedure mix, insurance reimbursement rates, and local tax rules will vary. Use this to get in the right ballpark, then ask your Belmont Representative and accountant to build a full proposal with your actual numbers.

As of 2026, most dental equipment financing falls in the 6%–9% range for practices with strong credit, and 9%–12% for startups or newer practices. Your Belmont Representative has relationships with lenders and can help shop the rate. The default of 6.5% in this calculator assumes an established practice with good credit — adjust it upward if your credit profile is thinner or you’re opening a new practice.

Section 179 of the IRS tax code lets businesses deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment in the year it is placed in service, instead of depreciating it over five to seven years. Dental chairs, delivery systems, operatory lights, and cabinetry all typically qualify. For most practice owners, Section 179 compresses the tax benefit into year one — improving cash flow exactly when the loan payment is highest relative to revenue. Always confirm eligibility with your accountant before filing.

This calculator focuses on the core financial picture: loan amortization, tax deduction, daily net revenue, and cash flow. It does not include installation, shipping, staff training time, operatory build-out (plumbing, electrical, flooring), insurance, ongoing maintenance, or insurance reimbursement delays. For a complete line-item breakdown, contact your Belmont Representative — most proposals include installation and training in the equipment quote.

The national average for a general dental practice runs between 60% and 70% of collections. High-volume or fee-for-service practices may run lower (50–60%); practices with high lab costs, multiple specialties, or newer facilities may run higher (70–80%). If you’re unsure, start with 65% and refine it once you have your actual overhead percentage from your CPA or practice management software.