Has it ever happened that you skipped a dental appointment? When these instances occur, are you aware that they can have serious side effects on your health and wallet then save on dental costs, too?
Postponing your dental care may lead to more serious oral and health issues. When a small cavity is left untreated, it can lead to a tooth loss and major infections. Preventive care is there to identify small and affordable problems before they become large and expensive. Different research shows that poor oral health and avoiding checkups can lead to heart diseases, diabetes, digestive and bone problems.
The average cost of dental services and the average dental cost per year may be too much for many of you, but we’ve compiled a list of tips that will provide guidance on how to save on dental costs. The first step begins with brushing and flossing. However, eventually, you’ll need to see a dental hygienist.
Use your insurance in a smart way
If you have insurance you should consider taking advantage of flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts. Also, try to visit dentists that are in your insurance company’s network and suggest setting up a payment plan if and when your out-of-pocket costs are too high.
Buy insurance
If you, on the other hand, don’t have insurance, consider buying it. It may seem expensive but depending on your needs, having insurance may be beneficial. There are sites that offer plans for as little as $20 per month.
Shop for dental care
Ask around in your local dental clinics about payment options and their policies. There are many clinics that offer packages, where you can pay for a year’s worth of care. You can ask about packages that prioritize preventive care and for discounts if you pay in cash. This might help save on dental costs.
Discount plan
In case you don’t have insurance, discount plans may be of help. Discounts ranging from 10 to 60 percent on dental services throughout the year are offered in exchange for a subscription fee. However, the dentist you would like to use needs to be included in their network.
Go to a local dental school
During the last year of their schooling, students do a hands-on dental work which is supervised by experienced instructors. The prices are significantly lower in schools than in clinics, so you may want to find an appropriate dental school to schedule your dental appointment there.
Discover low-cost and sliding fee clinics through your state dental association
Make sure to check the state dental association’s website because they list community dental clinics and sliding fee clinics. Their prices are based on your ability to pay so they are great for unemployed people or people with low income.
Consider participating in clinical trials
There are a few places that need volunteers from time to time to participate in clinical trials and in exchange they get free or low-cost dental treatments.
Charities that help get dental care
There are certain charity organizations whose focus is on helping people with low-income get the needed dental care. Look them up!
Schedule a visit to North Pointe Dental Associates
Healing toothaches, gum disease, periodontal disease, tooth extraction, root canal therapy, dental crowns, dental cleaning, and other dental procedures can be manageable if you follow the tips the North Pointe Dental Associates’ team has provided you with. Call us at (813) 961-1727 and we’ll do everything in our power to help your teeth and gums!
