Best Time to Buy Imaging Equipment in 2026: Tax, Trade Shows & Smart Timing Tips

If you're planning to upgrade your dental imaging equipment in 2026, timing your purchase could save your practice thousands of dollars—and Renew Digital is here to help you do just that. Whether you're considering a certified pre-owned CBCT, a panoramic or cephalometric system, or an intraoral scanner, understanding when to buy can be just as important as what you buy.

Here’s your strategic guide to the best times of year to purchase dental X-ray equipment in 2026.

1. Maximize Year-End Tax Savings with Section 179

If you're only going to remember one thing, make it this: the best time to buy is before December 31.

Thanks to Section 179 of the IRS tax code, dentists can deduct the full purchase price of qualifying equipment (like digital X-ray or CBCT systems) from their gross income. This applies even if the equipment is used or pre-owned, as long as it's installed and in service by year-end.

Why year-end matters:

• Deduction must apply to the current tax year

• Pre-owned equipment (like those from Renew Digital) qualifies

• Lower your tax bill and invest in tech for 2027 growth

Pro Tip: Schedule your installation early—slots fill up fast in Q4!

2. Buy Around Major Dental Trade Shows

Many practices make equipment decisions right after big trade shows, when they've seen the latest models and had time to evaluate vendors. If you're attending any of these in 2026, use them as a springboard:

• SmileCon 2026 (Fall): Expect promos and new tech launches

• AAO Annual Session (Spring): Big focus on CBCT + ceph systems

Why post-show is ideal:

• Dealers offer incentives to clear floor models

• Renew Digital may have recent trade-ins available at lower pricing

• Avoid “shiny object syndrome” and go with proven certified options

3. Watch for Strategic Inventory Sell-Offs

Like any retailer, Renew Digital occasionally offers flash sales or inventory clearance events—especially if certain models are being phased out or if newer trade-ins arrive in large volume.

 Example: A temporary markdown on the Sirona XG 3D Ready or Carestream CS 9300 might happen in late Q1 or early Q3 if Renew needs to free up space.

4. Align Purchases with Business Growth & Expansion

Another great time to buy? When you're launching:

• A satellite office

• A specialty add-on (implants, ortho, airway, etc.)

• An operatory remodel with digital workflows

Since Renew Digital offers installation, support, and training with every system, you're set up for success from day one.

5. Trade-In Time = Upgrade Time

Did you know Renew Digital also buys equipment?

If you're ready to:

• Upgrade from 2D to CBCT

• Switch brands (Carestream to Planmeca, for example)

• Sell a scanner with a subscription and go fee-free

...then trade-in value + used purchase savings is a win-win.

Our team handles:

• Equipment valuation

• Removal & shipping

• Documentation and compliance

Why Smart Practices Choose Renew Digital in 2026

✅ Certified pre-owned equipment from top brands
✅ Savings up to 50% off new MSRP
✅ Warranty, training, installation & support included
✅ No hidden fees or monthly software charges

Whether you're preparing for tax season, growing your team, or responding to demand for same-day treatment workflows, the best time to buy is when you're ready—and when you buy smart.

Ready to Plan Your 2026 Purchase?

Contact Renew Digital for:

• A custom quote on available models

• A trade-in value for your existing system

• Personalized help finding the right fit for your practice

👉 Call 888-246-5611

Buy smart. Save big. Scan better—with Renew Digital.