Importing dental restorations (such as Zirconia crowns, Acrylic dentures, Titanium implants…) from Vietnam into the global countries require dental clinic owners and dentists to understand import duties and associated fees. This article provides in-depth information on HS codes and duty rates by material type, fees such as MPF and HMF, FDA compliance requirements, and practical tips to help you save costs while complying with U.S. import laws.
1.Import Duties and HS Codes for Zirconia, Acrylic, and Titanium Dental Restoration
The U.S. assigns different HS codes and duty rates depending on the material of the dental restoration. In general, dental prosthetics fall under the group “Artificial body parts – Artificial teeth and parts thereof”.
Zirconia Dental Restorations (Zirconia Crowns and Bridges)
- Import Duty Rate: Under the U.S. MFN tariff schedule, zirconia crowns and bridges are currently duty-free. This means that these restorations are exempt from basic U.S. import tariffs, making them a cost-effective option for international trade.
Acrylic Dental Restorations (Dentures, Acrylic-Based Prosthetics)
- Acrylic-based dental restorations, including full and partial dentures, are also not subject to U.S. import duties under the MFN tariff system. This allows these products to be imported without any basic tariff burden.
Titanium Dental Restorations (Implants, Metal Frameworks, Abutments)
Titanium dental components (e.g., implant fixtures, abutments, titanium bridge frameworks) are classified under artificial teeth and parts thereof. In fact, implants and abutments are considered “parts of artificial teeth.”
Titanium dental components such as implants, abutments, and metal bridge frameworks are classified as parts of artificial teeth. These products are likewise exempt from basic U.S. import duties, aligning with the treatment of zirconia and acrylic restorations.
25% Additional Tariff on Products Originating from China
Although the basic import duty for the aforementioned dental restorations is 0%, it is important to note that products originating from China are subject to an additional 25% tariff under Section 301 of the Trade Act.
Since 2018, the U.S. has imposed a 25% additional tariff on crowns, bridges, dentures, implants, veneers, etc., from China.
This means if your clinic imports dental crowns or dentures from China, you must pay an additional 25% on top of the 0% base duty. To optimize costs, dentists may consider sourcing from other countries (e.g., Vietnam), which are not subject to this additional tariff.
2. Practical Tips for Cost-Saving and Legal Compliance When Importing
Importing dental restorations from Asia can offer significant cost savings, especially when clinics select reliable partners and ensure full regulatory compliance. For dental clinics utilizing dental design services, these strategies are particularly important to maintain quality and minimize financial and legal risks.
To minimize costs and ensure compliance with U.S. regulations, here are some practical suggestions for dental clinics importing dental restorations from Asia:
Choose the Right Supplier and Country of Origin
Goods from China are currently subject to a 25% additional tariff under U.S. trade regulations, which increases total cost significantly. To control expenses, consider sourcing from high-quality dental design service providers in countries like Vietnam, South Korea, or Taiwan—where dental restorations typically enjoy a 0% basic duty rate. However, it’s crucial to evaluate not only pricing but also the supplier’s credibility, experience, and ability to meet U.S. standards, especially for CAD/CAM and digital dental design work.
Optimize the Shipping Method
For small and urgent shipments, air freight (international express) is usually a good option. Air shipments are not subject to the Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF), which only applies to ocean freight, saving you additional costs. For large shipments (e.g., hundreds of crowns at once) where time is not critical, sea freight may offer lower transport costs. However, it includes the HMF (0.125%) and longer customs clearance time.
Ensure Proper Labeling and Documentation
When importing, ask your supplier to clearly label the country of origin on product packaging. Proper labeling (e.g., Made in Vietnam, Made in Korea) facilitates customs clearance and avoids U.S. customs violations. Keep invoices, packing lists, and FDA certificates (if available) well-organized to present when required.
Control Quality and Maintain Traceability
To protect your clinic’s reputation, collaborate closely with your Asian supplier to ensure product quality. Ensure they use medical-grade Zirconia, Acrylic, and Titanium materials and follow safe sterilization procedures. Request material origin certificates and quality inspection reports for every shipment. This not only assures product safety for patients but is also useful in case of FDA or state dental board traceability audits.
Importing dental restorations from Asia into the U.S. can offer economic benefits to dental clinics but requires a solid understanding of import duties and legal regulations. Clinic owners and dentists should be well-versed in product HS codes, applicable taxes and fees (import duties, MPF, HMF), and ensure supplier compliance with FDA medical device requirements.
With proper planning and trusted partners, you can reduce import costs while ensuring legal safety for your dental business. Stay updated with changes in U.S. trade policies and government guidance to maintain a smooth and sustainable import process.
3. Why Choose VCAD?
- Precision Engineering: Design accuracy within < 30 microns, ensuring perfect fit and function.
- Fast Turnaround Time: Standard delivery time of only 2–5 working days, ideal for international labs and clinics with tight deadlines.
- Certified Quality: Products meet international quality standards, such as ISO 13485, FDA materials.
- Strict Quality Control Systems: Each case undergoes rigorous multi-step quality inspections to ensure consistency and reliability.
- Dedicated After-Sales & Technical Support: Responsive support teams provide guidance, troubleshooting, and long-term partnership care.
Whether you’re a dental clinic, laboratory, or brand looking to expand your service capabilities under your own label, VCAD Dental is your trusted OEM manufacturing partner for high-quality dental solutions at global standards.
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Hotline: +84963870270
Email: partner@vcaddental.com
Website: https://www.vcaddental.com/
