To “T” or Not to “T”: How One Policy Shift is Rewriting the Dental Playbook

May 27, 2025

To “T” or Not to “T”: How One Policy Shift is Rewriting the Dental Playbook

In recent years, the dental industry, especially the clear aligner sector, has become deeply dependent on global supply chains. Clinics in the UK routinely source aligners, materials, and technology from Asia, the EU, and North America. This system, once celebrated for its cost efficiency and scale, is now under pressure from all directions.

Between tariffs, customs bottlenecks, and fractured international trade relationships, the global model that once delivered value is now delivering delays and rising costs. Yet amid this turbulence lies a critical opportunity, especially for UK-based dental labs.

While the current environment may hurt imports, it’s a blessing in disguise for “Made in Britain.”

How Tariffs and Border Checks Are Raising the Cost of Dentistry

1. Tariffs on Medical and Dental Goods

Post-Brexit duties and paperwork on EU-origin products
Import charges from Asia and the US on scanners, plastics, and parts
Increased surcharges from logistics providers

2. Customs Delays and Bureaucracy

Border friction has re-emerged, even within Europe
Aligners and equipment are regularly held up at customs

3. Currency Volatility and Geopolitical Risk

A weakening pound raises costs for dollar-priced goods
Trade relationships shift unpredictably, increasing risk for importers

The outcome? Longer delivery timelines, reduced margins, and higher costs across the board.

Can Trade Deals Help?

Yes, but not right away.

UK–India Trade Deal

Tariff-free access to Indian aligners and materials
48-hour customs clearance agreement
Innovation partnerships and IP protection

UK–EU Brexit Reset

Aims to reduce customs friction
Regulatory misalignment still causes delays

UK–US Trade Prospects

Long-term potential for cheaper scanners and high-end tools
Politically delayed and unlikely to impact labs soon

The “Made in Britain” Advantage, Right Now

UK-based labs are gaining traction thanks to:

Speed & Reliability

No customs delays
Same-day or next-day case turnaround

Trust & Support

In-time-zone communication
Real-time case revisions and collaboration

Cost & Compliance

No currency shocks or border taxes
Full alignment with MHRA & GDC standards

Proximity Sells

Clinics want partners who can act fast and fix problems

Strategy for UK Labs: Win the Now, Prepare for the Next

1. Digitize Operations

AI-driven planning, automated workflows
Enhanced inventory and communication systems

2. Use Trade Deals Tactically

Import cheaper raw materials (e.g. from India)
Retain planning, QA, and clinician relationships locally

3. Market Local as a Strength

Emphasize quality, agility, and regulatory assurance
Reframe “local” as a premium differentiator

Final Thoughts: Global Uncertainty, Local Opportunity

Trade deals will eventually help stabilize supply chains. But right now, being local is a superpower. UK labs that embrace agility, digitization, and proximity will not only survive, they’ll lead.