A quick business funding process that offers same day business loans for business owners.
Running your own dental practice is fulfilling work. But it can also be a big financial challenge. With high-priced equipment, lots of overhead, multiple employees, and payment deals with insurance companies, dental work can have thin profit margins. Growing your business means you can increase those margins, but you need a significant amount of cash to expand your business. And while you might have some on hand, chances are good that you’ll need funding.
We offer a variety of small business loans for dentists that help you cover the costs of growing your business. Whether you need a large amount of cash or just a bit of working capital, Shield Funding can help.
What Do I Need to Qualify?
Below is a list of the general requirements to get approved for business funding with our basic program.
How Do I Apply?
Applying has never been easier. You can either call our toll free number 24 hours 7 days a week at:
OR
Term loans are the funding vehicles you’re most familiar with: you get a chunk of cash, then pay it back with interest over a certain period of time. The biggest advantage of these types of loans is that you can get very large sums. Shield Funding, for example, offers up to $1,000,000 for qualified dental practice loans. That’s enough money to open an entire new location with several treatment rooms and the latest equipment.
Of course, you can also get a smaller loan to help with buying a new dental chair, renovating or expanding your building, upgrading your X-ray machine, paying rent, or anything else related to your business. With terms from 2–36 months, you have the repayment flexibility you need to make these loans work for you. And interest rates from 5–45% won’t break the bank. As long as you’ve been in business for two months and make at least $8,000 in monthly revenue, you can qualify for a small business loan from Shield Funding.
Because we’re an independent alternative lender, we can offer better service to business owners with bad credit than traditional lenders. If you don’t have great credit, you’ll be hard pressed to find a bank that will approve you for a loan. But our merchant cash advance loans only require a credit rating of 500. You’ll have less flexibility in terms (2–18 months, or sometimes a bit longer, and 12–45% interest), but you can still get up to $1,000,000 for growing your dental practice.
Again, you’ll need to have two months of business under your belt and bring in at least $8,000 in monthly revenue with some of that coming from processing credit card payments. The exact terms of your merchant loan will vary based on your credit and your business financials.
You want to offer the absolute best service to your clients. For that, you’ll need the best equipment. And, as we saw, dental equipment can be very expensive. A pair of top-of-the-line dental chairs can easily run you $15,000 or more. But going that extra step to provide a better experience for your clients is what keeps you in business. Equipment financing helps you make those purchases. These are loans specifically earmarked for new equipment. Because they’re less flexible, you can often get better rates—sometimes below 10%.
But there’s a trade-off: you’ll have to make a down payment. And that can be up to 20% of the cost of the equipment. If you’re opening a new location, that down payment might be $15,000 or $20,000. If you have the cash on hand to make that purchase, equipment financing is a great choice. If you don’t have that much liquid cash, though, you might be better off taking a standard term loan. Whatever you do, don’t skimp on equipment to save money. Clients know when they’re getting the best dental work, and they’ll seek out better-equipped practices if they have to.
Operating costs for dental practices can be very high—the average annual overhead cost is around $350,000. And you’ll need to be prepared to make those payments. There are also plenty of other day-to-day expenses. If your X-ray machine stops working, you need to get it fixed immediately. Or maybe you run out of composite for fillings faster than expected, and you need to get a new supply fast. You might find a great advertising opportunity that you need to take advantage of right away, or be approached by a new insurance company with a deal that requires some cash on hand.
Whatever the reason, you need money and you need it fast. That’s what a business line of credit is for. You can think of it like a credit card—you have a maximum limit and you can use any amount up to that number for a purchase. Then you make monthly payments that cover the interest and the balance. With Shield Funding’s lines of credit, you can have up to $250,000 at your disposal for those last-minute purchases, cover payroll expenses, or other costs that come up. And with interest rates of 5–10%, you’ll get a much better deal than you would with a standard credit card. You’ll need six months in business, a credit rating of 650 or higher, and at least $10,000 in monthly revenues to qualify.
Apply Directly to One Source!
Work with a direct lender and get a business loan as fast as the same day. Shield Funding offers competitive rates and terms on all it’s funding programs. Apply now with a trusted lender that has been helping business owners secure working capital for almost two decades.
Bank of America offers comprehensive dental practice loans tailored to the needs of both new and established dentists. Their financing solutions include loans for starting or expanding a practice, purchasing equipment, and office renovations. They provide flexible payment structures, such as interest-only and graduated payment options for startups, and assign dedicated project consultants for larger projects. Bank of America is endorsed by more state dental associations than any other lender and offers special discounts for veterans. Their Doctor Home Loan program is also designed specifically for licensed and practicing dentists.
Genisys Credit Union offers specialized medical and dental loans with high credit limits—up to $50,000—and flexible repayment terms that can extend up to 72 months. These loans are designed to cover a broad range of needs, including equipment purchases, renovations, and even working capital for dental practices. Genisys is known for its competitive fixed rates and straightforward application process, making it a practical choice for dentists looking to invest in their practice’s growth or modernization. Membership is open to individuals in select communities or through affiliated organizations, and the credit union prides itself on providing personalized service and fast funding decisions.
Navy Federal Credit Union is one of the largest credit unions in the country and offers a suite of business lending products, including term loans, business lines of credit, and commercial real estate loans suitable for dental professionals. These products can be used for practice acquisition, equipment upgrades, expansion, or even refinancing existing debt. Navy Federal is known for its competitive rates, flexible terms, and dedicated business banking specialists who understand the unique needs of healthcare providers. Membership is open to military members, veterans, Department of Defense employees, and their families, and their business lending solutions are tailored to help dental practices thrive at any stage.
Alliant Credit Union provides robust business lending options, including business loans and commercial real estate financing, which are ideal for dentists looking to purchase, build, or upgrade their practice facilities. They also offer business lines of credit that can be used for inventory, payroll, or other operational expenses, giving dental practices the flexibility to manage cash flow efficiently. Alliant is recognized for its digital-first approach, making account management and loan applications streamlined and convenient. Membership is available nationwide, and their commitment to competitive rates and member service makes them an attractive option for dental professionals.
BECU (Boeing Employees Credit Union) offers a range of business loans, equipment financing, and commercial real estate loans tailored to healthcare professionals, including dentists. These products are suitable for practice start-up, expansion, modernization, or purchasing new dental technology. BECU’s business specialists work closely with members to understand their goals and structure loans accordingly, providing guidance throughout the process. Membership is primarily available to residents of Washington state and select counties in Oregon and Idaho, as well as Boeing employees and their families. BECU is known for its local focus, competitive rates, and commitment to supporting small business growth in the healthcare sector.
Panacea Financial provides personal loans specifically for dentists, with borrowing amounts up to $50,000 at rates significantly lower than typical credit cards. These loans are designed for various needs, including relocation, practice transitions, or covering life events, and feature quick funding, no hard credit check, and no prepayment penalties. Panacea also offers reduced payments for dental students and recent graduates.
RSF Social Finance is a mission-driven financial services organization that provides loans and lines of credit to social enterprises, including those in the healthcare and dental sectors. RSF focuses on supporting organizations that deliver significant social or environmental impact, with a particular interest in projects that promote health equity and community well-being. Their funding is designed for businesses and nonprofits that may not fit the strict criteria of traditional banks but can demonstrate a strong mission alignment and a viable plan for financial sustainability. RSF’s approach emphasizes relationship-based lending, transparency, and collaboration, often working closely with borrowers to ensure the success and growth of their initiatives.
The DTA Foundation is a charitable group that gives grants to help improve dental care and access. They focus on funding new and creative projects that can make a big difference in oral health, especially those that can be used in other places if successful. The foundation also offers scholarships to dental and dental hygiene students. Grants are usually given to dental organizations, schools, and community nonprofits. The DTA Foundation is looking for fresh ideas rather than funding ongoing costs or equipment, aiming to support projects that can lead to lasting improvements in dental care.
The Delta Dental Foundation provides community mini-grants to organizations in Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. These grants, typically up to $5,000, support programs that increase dental access for disadvantaged communities, fund educational initiatives about oral health, and help reduce oral health disparities. Funding can be used for a variety of community needs, from purchasing clinic equipment to supporting free denture programs and integrating oral health into prenatal care.
The ADEAGies Foundation supports grants and awards that benefit dental education and the professional growth of dentists. Recent grants have funded projects such as continuing education for dental providers, faculty development, and research into workforce trends. These grants are often awarded to dental schools and educators, but practicing dentists involved in academic or workforce initiatives may also benefit.
Dentist business loans are a flexible financing solution designed specifically for dental professionals who want to grow their practice, manage cash flow, or invest in new opportunities. These loans can be used for a wide range of business needs, such as purchasing equipment, renovating office space, covering payroll, stocking up on supplies, or funding marketing campaigns to attract new patients. With loan amounts typically ranging from $5,000 up to several million dollars, and terms that can extend up to 10 years, dentists can choose a financing option that fits their unique goals and timelines.
The application process is streamlined, with many lenders offering quick approvals and funding in as little as 24 to 72 hours, so you can access the capital you need without the long waits and paperwork of traditional bank loans. Most dental business loans do not require personal collateral, and funds can be used for any business-related expense, giving you the freedom to manage your practice as you see fit. Whether you are expanding to a new location, upgrading technology, or simply smoothing out cash flow during slower periods, dental business loans provide the support you need to keep your practice thriving.
Dentist business loans offer fast, flexible funding for dental professionals looking to grow or stabilize their practices. These loans are especially useful for purchasing new equipment, expanding office space, or taking advantage of supplier discounts on dental materials and technology. With quick access to capital, you can hire additional staff to meet patient demand, invest in marketing to attract new clients, or cover unexpected expenses without disrupting your operations.
Dentist business loans are designed to support your practice’s unique needs, allowing you to seize new opportunities or manage day-to-day cash flow with ease. Approval is often based on your practice’s revenue and business performance, and many lenders provide same-day or next-day funding—so you can act quickly and confidently. With no restrictions on how the funds are used, these loans give you the flexibility and speed to keep your dental practice running smoothly and positioned for growth.
Before taking out a dentist business loan, it’s essential to thoroughly assess your practice’s financial situation and repayment ability. Review your monthly income, fixed and variable expenses, and overall cash flow to determine a comfortable payment amount that won’t impact your daily operations. Dentist business loans can vary widely in terms, interest rates, and fees, so be sure to compare offers and understand the total cost of borrowing—not just the monthly payment. Consider how the loan fits into your long-term business plans, whether you’re investing in new equipment, expanding your office, or covering operational costs. Responsible borrowing ensures that your practice remains financially stable, allowing you to benefit from the loan without putting undue strain on your resources. Always choose a repayment schedule that aligns with your revenue cycles and supports the ongoing health of your dental practice.
Before applying for a dentist business loan, it’s important to have a clear and detailed plan for how you intend to use the funds. Whether you’re looking to purchase new equipment, renovate your office, hire additional staff, or expand to a new location, knowing your specific goals will help you determine the right loan amount and structure for your practice. A focused plan not only ensures that you borrow what you truly need but also helps you avoid taking on unnecessary debt that could strain your finances. By outlining your intended use of the loan, you can better evaluate different loan options, select terms that align with your business objectives, and demonstrate to lenders that you are prepared and strategic in your approach. This thoughtful planning supports the long-term health and growth of your dental practice, making sure the loan truly advances your professional goals.
Dentist business loans are a practical financing option for dental professionals seeking working capital for short-term needs, often with access to some of the most competitive rates and terms available. These loans typically require a fair to good credit score, and approval is based on factors such as your personal and business credit history, annual revenue, and the overall financial health of your practice. Before applying, it’s important to consider the repayment period—shorter terms can mean higher payments compared to longer-term loans, so you should carefully review your cash flow and ensure the loan fits your budget and business objectives. Evaluating the total cost of borrowing, including any fees and interest, will help you determine if this financing will truly support your goals or add unnecessary financial pressure. Taking the time to assess these factors can help you choose the right loan product and set your dental practice up for continued success
Several factors determine whether you qualify for a dentist business loan, and lenders typically focus on the overall strength and stability of your practice. While your credit history is reviewed, your business’s financial performance—such as how long you’ve been operating, your monthly cash flow, and your banking activity—plays a significant role in the decision process57. Lenders also consider your experience in dentistry, the quality of your business plan, and your ability to manage financial obligations and debt. Additional factors may include your practice’s profitability, industry trends, and any seasonal revenue patterns that affect your cash flow. By evaluating these aspects, lenders gain a comprehensive view of your practice’s financial health and your capacity to repay the loan, helping them make informed approval decisions.
The amount you can qualify for with a dentist business loan is largely determined by your practice’s monthly revenue, cash flow, and overall financial stability. Lenders typically review your bank deposit history and may approve funding based on a percentage of your average monthly deposits, often allowing you to access a substantial portion of your regular income as a loan. For example, if your dental practice consistently deposits $50,000 each month, you might be eligible for a loan amount in the range of $35,000 or more, depending on the lender’s specific criteria and your business’s financial health. A strong, steady track record of revenue and responsible financial management increases your chances of qualifying for higher loan amounts, as lenders want to ensure you have the capacity to comfortably manage repayments while maintaining your practice’s operations.
With a dentist business loan, repayment typically begins soon after you receive the funds and is structured to fit the needs of your practice. Most dental loans offer monthly payment schedules, which can make it easier to budget and manage your cash flow. Depending on the type of loan and lender, you may also encounter options for fixed or variable interest rates, as well as the possibility of an initial interest-only period to help ease into full repayment. The length of the repayment term can vary widely—from a few years for equipment or working capital loans to up to 20 years for real estate or larger practice acquisition loans. Each payment is typically applied to both principal and interest, making the process predictable and manageable for busy dental professionals. Understanding your repayment schedule and the total cost of the loan will help you maintain steady operations while meeting your financial obligations.
The cost of a dentist business loan depends on the rate structure and the length of the loan term. Some lenders use a factor rate, which is a fixed multiplier applied to the loan amount to determine your total repayment. For example, if you borrow $20,000 at a factor rate of 1.15 over 12 months, your total repayment would be $23,000, including $3,000 in financing costs. Unlike traditional interest, the factor rate is set up front, so you know exactly how much you’ll repay from the start. Your payment schedule—whether monthly or weekly—will determine how those payments are distributed over the loan term. This approach provides clear, predictable repayment terms, allowing you to plan your practice’s finances with confidence.
This is likely one of the most important benchmarks you will use to compare lending options. If one lender offers a better interest rate than the other and all other things remain the same you can have a good idea of the rate comparison. You must keep in mind that different products such as credit cards or car loans work using traditional financing interest rates and APR, but many alternative funding programs quote in a factor rate or annualized interest rates so try to compare options based on the types of loans they are most similar to. And ultimately it will come down to what you have to pay back when all is said and done.
When comparing lending options, whether quoted in factor rates, interest rates, or any other framework, what is most important is what you will pay back when all is said and done. For this reason you should always try to look at what you will pay over the entire life of the loan.
Yes, many lenders allow dentists to use business loans to refinance or consolidate existing practice debt. Refinancing can help lower your interest rate, reduce monthly payments, or simplify finances by combining multiple debts into one loan.
Yes, specialized dental practice loans are available for acquiring, refinancing, or renovating commercial real estate. These loans often feature longer repayment terms—sometimes up to 20 or 25 years—and may offer up to 100% financing for qualified borrowers.
A dental practice acquisition loan is designed to help dentists purchase an existing practice. These loans often cover the full cost of acquisition, including the value of equipment, patient records, goodwill, and sometimes working capital for transition expenses.
While experience is valued, some lenders have programs tailored for new dentists or first-time owners, considering factors like education, professional credentials, and business plans. These loans may require additional documentation or mentorship arrangements.
Common fees include origination fees, underwriting fees, closing costs, and sometimes prepayment penalties. It’s important to review a loan’s annual percentage rate (APR), which includes both interest and fees, for a true cost comparison.
Absolutely. These loans are often used to fund office expansions, purchase new equipment, add operatories, or introduce new specialties and services to your practice.
