SBA Loans for Dental Practices
Dentists use SBA 7(a) and 504 loans for practice acquisitions, de novo startups, CBCT and CAD/CAM equipment, and dental office buildings. 3A Lending pre-approves dental deals in 24 hours — so you can move before the DSO does.
Deep Dives
May 25, 2026 · 5 min read
Dental Practice Acquisition: SBA 7(a) Loan Guide
Step-by-step guide to financing a dental practice acquisition with SBA 7(a). Valuation, deal structure, lender requirements, and what makes dental acquisitions close or fall apart.
May 25, 2026 · 4 min read
Dental Equipment Financing: Chairs, CBCT, CAD/CAM, and More
New office setup or equipment upgrade? SBA 7(a) covers dental chairs, CBCT, digital X-ray, CAD/CAM, and laser systems. Here's how dental equipment loans work and what lenders need.
May 25, 2026 · 4 min read
Starting a Dental Practice: De Novo vs. Acquisition SBA Financing
Should you buy an existing dental practice or start from scratch? Both are financeable through SBA. Here's the honest comparison — including what lenders think — and how to structure each.
May 25, 2026 · 4 min read
DSO Alternatives: Why Independent Dentists Choose SBA Loans Over Selling Out
DSOs are buying dental practices at a premium — but many dentists regret selling. SBA financing gives independent dentists the capital to compete, grow, and build real equity without giving up control.
May 25, 2026 · 4 min read
Buying a Dental Office Building: SBA 504 for Dentist-Owned Real Estate
Dentists who own their building pay themselves rent and build wealth outside the practice. SBA 504 makes it possible with 10% down. Here's how dental office real estate financing works.
May 25, 2026 · 4 min read
24-Hour Pre-Approval for Dental Practice SBA Loans — 3A Lending
Get your dental practice SBA loan pre-approved in 24 hours at 3A Lending. Here's what we evaluate, what you need, and how the process flows from pre-approval to closing.
Dental Practice SBA Loan FAQ
Can dentists use SBA loans to buy a practice?
Yes — SBA 7(a) is the primary financing vehicle for dental practice acquisitions. Typical structure: 85% SBA loan, 10% buyer equity, optional seller carry note of 5%. Term up to 10 years. Most dental acquisitions close in 45–60 days.
Can a new dental graduate get an SBA loan?
Yes. Recent dental graduates are among the most common SBA borrowers, especially for de novo practices. Residency or associate experience, 700+ credit, and a credible business plan are the key requirements.
How does SBA financing help dentists compete with DSOs?
A pre-approved SBA buyer can move as fast as a corporate consolidator. 3A Lending's 24-hour pre-approval means you know your financing terms before you sign an LOI — so you can make competitive offers with confidence.
What down payment do dentists need for an SBA loan?
Minimum 10% of the total project cost. Seller carry notes (where the seller finances 5–10% of the price as a subordinated note) can reduce out-of-pocket cash — but some equity injection is always required.
Can SBA loans finance dental equipment like CBCT or CAD/CAM?
Yes. Dental equipment — CBCT ($80–250K), CAD/CAM systems ($100–175K), digital X-ray, dental chairs — all qualify under SBA 7(a). Equipment is typically bundled into a practice acquisition or de novo loan rather than financed separately.