Why do taxes feel so painful for dentists? Because most dental practice owners aren’t prepared for the emotional and financial gut-punch that comes with big tax bills, until it’s too late. Kiera Dent sat down with Morgan Hamon of EAG Dental Advisors to uncover the real psychology behind taxes, plus actionable strategies that reduce stress, increase savings, and build long-term tax discipline in your dental business.

What tax mistakes do most dental practice owners make?

Most dentists ignore taxes until the pain hits—leading to surprise bills, emotional distress, and missed savings opportunities.

Morgan explains how many doctors operate in denial until the tax bill arrives, creating a cycle of fear and avoidance. But by reframing taxes as a cost of success and engaging monthly, you can transform frustration into empowerment.

Common mistakes include:

Not saving for taxes monthly based on profit
Failing to follow your CPA’s instructions for deductions (like board meetings)
Spending distributions before allocating funds for SEP IRAs, bonuses, or equipment
Waiting until the end of the year to “figure it all out”

How can dental practice owners save smarter on taxes?

It’s all about engagement, tax discipline, and systems. Yes, even for taxes. Morgan recommends simple, repeatable habits that any dentist can implement, regardless of revenue:

Try this monthly savings system:

Calculate your monthly profit
Estimate 30–35% of that profit for taxes
Transfer it into a high-yield savings account
Create separate buckets (e.g., SEP IRA, charity, end-of-year bonuses)
Treat your quarterly estimated payments like clockwork

What’s the “Success Tax” and why is it worth it?

The “Success Tax” is the price of having a profitable business, and it’s a good thing.

Morgan and Kiera discuss how paying higher taxes often means you’ve built something thriving. Rather than fear it, plan for it. That mindset shift can bring peace of mind and a sense of pride in your leadership.

What should dentists ask their CPA every year?

Morgan shares his personal framework from EAG Dental Advisors:

Ask if it’s time to become or remain an S-Corp
Maximize deductions, document board meetings, legitimize Airbnb strategy, and keep receipts
Use a checklist every September to ensure you’re on track
Over-communicate life and business changes with your CPA

The real ROI of tax discipline

Tax planning isn’t just about avoiding pain, it’s about leading intentionally and protecting profit.

By building the discipline to plan monthly, you empower yourself as a leader, create stability for your team, and take control of your business future. The systems you use for taxes mirror the systems you use to grow and scale a dream practice.

Want help building tax-smart systems into your practice?

Let’s make your practice work for you with our proven strategies that simplify leadership, finances, and operations. Schedule a call!

Don’t forget to check out our podcast for more tips on overcoming patient objections.

Last updated: July 2025
Written by Jacintha Ham, Dental A Team

How Tax Discipline Builds Better Dental Practices