He or she can lease through his or her corporation so that it doesn't affect their personal credit. He'll save money because leasing down payments are much lower than bank loans. The payments are made through a payment term, which is tax deductible. When the equipment arrives, make a thorough inspection and test it. After you sign for it you are under contract.

Make sure all personnel are careful with the equipment as you pay for maintenance. According to the lease's terms you have to make the payments whether you take good care of it or not and no matter what condition it is in. But you usually can upgrade at a minimal cost.

It is hard because of advances in dental technology to equip a dentist office with the latest tools. But dental equipment leasing can be a good alternative to buying. Here is the information you should be aware of before you sign a dental equipment-leasing contract.

* The leasing company should have the choice of the most current technology and older equipment that is usable. Look at the inventory compilation and note if the company stocks what you want. Speak with a customer service person and learn the age of the equipment and the length of time they keep stock before changing out to newer models.

* After you've verified they have current technology, look the inventory over and find out if they have the various pieces of equipment you'd like to use in your office. A dental leasing company can't have every piece of equipment there is, the company needs to have what you desire to use.

* Find out what the companies credentials are before you lease. A lot of dentists don't check this out, but it is necessary to make sure the equipment will work and meets safety standards. Find out if they have a license and insurance. Are they listed with the BBB?

* Verify that they give good customer service. You'll be talking with them and doing business with them regularly. So you need to make sure the dental equipment leasing company you choose gives good customer service. Does the customer service representative call back promptly and is the representative friendly? Can you contact by phone, fax, and e-mail? Does the rep solve the problem quickly? Are maintenance service packages included?

* Examine the leasing costs of the dental equipment leasing for all the companies you are considering leasing from. This includes the price for the equipment, administration costs, delivery, inventory, and maintenance. It also pertains to your supply costs for operating and maintaining your leased equipment.

Go over your checklist, find good dental equipment leasing company and you can get your dental office started or update your equipment for less.