For patients of all ages, seeing a dentist regularly is vital for a healthy smile and all the benefits that go with it. Less major dental work, better general health, and more self-confidence are just some of the perks of getting high-quality dental care. But, since everyone is trying to save money these days, it’s well worth it to learn how to make dental care more affordable. If you’re insured, one of the first tips is to schedule early in the year, before your benefits expire. And if you’re uninsured, there are still ways to get the care you need without breaking the bank. Want to know more? Keep reading below!
Don’t Miss Out On Your Insurance Benefits
It’s hard to believe it’s already June. The fall weather and holiday season will be here before we know it! And, since the majority of insurance plans begin on January 1stand end on December 31st, it’s a good idea to schedule dental visits sooner rather than later. Having said that, every plan is different, so always double check your plan or ask a dental office to determine the start and end date.
At the very least, everyone with insurance should schedule regular checkups and cleanings because they’re usually covered at 100%. Along with good oral hygiene habits at home, these visits are the best way to prevent the need for major dental work. The earlier problems like cavities or gum disease are found, the easier and less expensive they are to treat.
Also, by getting a checkup earlier in the year, you’ll know if you or a family member needs additional treatment and will have time to schedule it before your plan expires. Restorative procedures such as fillings, dental crowns or bridges usually get partial coverage of between 50%-80%. Cosmetic services aren’t generally covered.
Keep in mind – if you’re lucky enough to have dental insurance, you may as well take advantage of it.
Ways To Make Dentistry More Affordable – Without Insurance
If you’re one of the millions of Americans who don’t have dental insurance, you still deserve to have a smile you feel good about. Fortunately, there are a couple of ways to make it a little easier financially, including seeing a dentist who offers one or both of the following options:
- Membership Program – With a membership program, you simply pay a one-time annual membership fee, which includes preventative care like checkups and cleanings at no additional cost and a significant discount off all other services.
- Financing– Third-party financing such as CareCredit works a lot like a “healthcare credit card,” so you can make monthly payments with little to no interest.
With these tips and tricks, you’ll find it’s less expensive than you thought for you and your family to maintain great dental health!
About the Author
Dr. Joanne Bancroft has been a family dentist for over 15 years and completed her residency at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. Her goal is to make dentistry as affordable as possible, and she and her staff are always available for questions about insurance, financing, or their membership plan. If you’d like more information or want to schedule an appointment, she can be reached via her website.