5 Smart Tax Moves Dentists Should Make Before December

Most dentists do not run out of revenue in December — they run out of time. By the time April arrives, the best tax-saving options are already gone. That is why October and November are such valuable planning months: you still have room to make decisions that can lower taxable income and protect cash flow.

Dentist reviewing year-end tax strategy

1. Buy equipment before the clock runs out

Planning to upgrade a scanner, chair, sensor, or other clinical equipment? If the purchase is placed in service before December 31, Bonus Depreciation may allow a large first-year deduction. A dentist who orders in January loses that opportunity for another full tax cycle.

2. Check retirement plan contributions

Retirement plans can do double duty: build long-term wealth and reduce taxable income. Whether your practice uses a 401(k), profit-sharing plan, or cash balance plan, now is the time to confirm contribution limits, deadlines, and whether the plan is being funded at the right level.

Tax planning documents and calculator

3. Review payroll and owner compensation

For S corporation dental practices, owner pay needs a fresh look before W-2s are issued. A reasonable salary matters for payroll taxes and audit risk, and the right mix of wages and distributions can make a meaningful difference. Waiting until spring usually means the numbers are already locked in.

4. Use charitable gifts and prepaid expenses wisely

If giving is part of your practice culture, make sure donations are completed on time and documented properly. Also, certain ordinary business expenses may be prepaid and deducted now if the timing rules are met. That can help bring this taxable income down before the books close.

Think of two dentists: one waits until April and spends tax season reacting to what already happened. The other sits down in October, reviews equipment needs, retirement funding, compensation, and spending patterns, then makes a few timely moves that keep more money in the practice.

If you want a clearer, calmer finish to the tax season, now is the moment to act. Talk with your accountant before December closes the window, so your practice can capture every deduction that still belongs to you.

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