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Honest conversations with the people shaping the future of dentistry. From practice owners to industry disruptors, we dive into real stories, smart strategies, and behind-the-scenes insights you won’t hear anywhere else. No fluff—just the ideas and experiences that move dental practices forward.

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Will Tariffs Reshape Dentistry? 

In this episode of the Zen One Podcast, host Tiger Safarov speaks with Rick Van Arnam, a partner at a global trade law firm, about the complexities of tariffs and their implications for the dental industry. They discuss the historical context of tariffs in the U.S., recent developments under the Trump and Biden administrations, and the specific impact on dental products. The conversation also covers the challenges faced by dental practices due to rising costs and the strategies they can employ to mitigate these effects. Finally, they explore the future outlook on tariffs and trade, emphasizing the need for dentists to stay informed and adaptable.

05/06/2025

38:55

About Rick Van Arnam, Jr: 

https://www.barnesrichardson.com/frederic-d-van-arnam-jr 

Takeaways

  • Tariffs have a long history in the U.S., dating back to 1789.
  • The China 301 tariffs have significantly impacted dental products.
  • Recent tariff policies have created uncertainty for importers.
  • Dentists may face increased costs due to rising tariffs on dental supplies.
  • The importer is responsible for paying tariffs, not the foreign exporter.
  • Mitigation strategies include negotiating with suppliers and diversifying vendors.
  • The pause on certain tariffs may provide temporary relief for importers.
  • Future trade negotiations could alter current tariff rates.
  • Smaller distributors may struggle more than larger ones in the current market.
  • Staying informed about tariff changes is crucial for dental practices.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tariffs and Trade Law

01:12 Historical Context of Tariffs in the U.S.

03:12 The China 301 Tariffs Explained

07:01 IEPA Tariffs and Their Implications

09:55 Reciprocal Tariffs and Their Impact

12:14 Current Tariff Rates and Their Effects

16:04 Dental Products and Tariff Challenges

22:43 Mitigation Strategies for Dentists

28:18 Future of Tariffs and Trade Relations

36:43 Conclusion and Resources for Dentists