The orthodontics field could be negatively impacted by President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, according to Barry Lyon, DDS.
Dr. Lyon is the dental director for Main Street Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics and the chief clinical auditor for Dental Care Alliance. He recently connected with Becker’s to discuss how tariffs could impact orthodontics.
Editor’s note: This Q&A is part of a weekly series featuring Dr. Lyon focused on topics in the dental industry and DSO field. The views expressed are those of Dr. Lyon and do not necessarily reflect those of Main Street Children’s Dentistry and Orthodontics or Dental Care Alliance.
This response was lightly edited for clarity and length.
Dr. Barry Lyon:
Initially, the orthodontic industry was expected to show demonstrable growth in 2025 based on the use of AI diagnostics, the widespread acceptance of clear aligner therapy, 3D printing and a general public awareness of the functional and cosmetic benefits of orthodontic treatment. While case acceptance rates for orthodontic practices averaged at 64.4% in 2024, and the orthodontic industry in the U.S. was expected to grow by 10% in 2025, the looming effect of Trump’s tariffs may change the picture.
The on-again, off-again threat of tariffs places a dark cloud over the industry in general. Let’s assume for the moment that all things are equal and families are not impacted by layoffs, inflation and the loss of health benefits. For orthodontists, the prime concern is the increased cost of orthodontic supplies — most of which come from China, Mexico and Canada, economies zeroed in by the current administration. It takes little imagination to see whether the costs of operating an orthodontic practice will be heavily impacted. On top of this, the recruiting and retention of dental assistants continues to be a challenge, and dental assistant salaries are expected to continue increasing.
Now, let’s consider all things are not equal, and families are faced with continued inflation, loss of employment and loss of health benefits. That cloud hanging over the potential for the orthodontic industry to grow, just got darker.
