Brushing and flossing are your first line of defense against common issues that cause tooth loss, like cavities and gum disease. However, they aren’t enough to fully safeguard your smile. The American Dental Association recommends a cleaning and checkup every 6 months; however, 35% of adults haven’t seen a dentist in the last year, despite having dental insurance. Cost is among the most common reasons people don’t go to the dentist. Although you might believe you’re saving money, you’re opening the door to a large dental bill. Believe it or not, visiting a dentist saves you money, and here’s how.
The Power of Prevention
Many people view routine cleanings and checkups as a luxury, but they are a necessity. Dentistry focuses on prevention to stop common issues from occurring to preserve a patient’s natural smile. Semi-annual appointments allow your dentist to remove plaque and tartar to keep your gums healthy. They’ll also examine your mouth to look for anything concerning. With prevention and early detection, you’ll avoid needing costly treatments later. Research has found that every $1 spent on preventive dentistry can save up to $50 on restorative and emergency services.
Untreated dental issues are a common cause of oral emergencies. While you may not believe you’re at risk, 1 in 6 Americans has a dental emergency annually. Visiting your dentist regularly ensures there aren’t any untreated dental problems lingering in your mouth. It’s best to have any dental work right away to prevent the issue from worsening to avoid needing an emergency dentist later.
Your dentist is an investment in your future. Preserving your natural smile will help you avoid tooth loss, so you won’t have to pay for bridges or dentures down the road. Don’t worry if money is tight. You have several options to get the care you need without breaking the bank.
Options for Affordable Dental Care
Visiting a dentist is more affordable than ever because there are several options to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses, including:
- Dental Insurance: Paying your monthly premiums gives you access to 100% coverage for preventive services and up to 80% coverage for restorative procedures to significantly reduce the amount you’ll pay.
- In-House Membership Plans: If you don’t have dental insurance, you can join an in-house membership plan to benefit from reduced rates for common services.
- Monthly Financing: Any out-of-pocket expenses can be paid using monthly payments with little or no interest through a third-party financing company, like CareCredit.
If you’ve been putting off visiting a dentist because you’re trying to save money, don’t keep placing your oral health at risk. Invest in the power of preventive dentistry to achieve your best smile.
About Dr. Wael M. Kassem
Dr. Kassem achieved his dental degree at Temple University and has regularly continued his education in advanced services, like general and cosmetic dentistry. He strives to provide affordable dental care. Besides accepting many dental insurances, he also offers an in-house membership plan. Contact our office today to schedule your cleaning and checkup.
