Have you ever gotten up from the dentist’s chair grateful there was no pain or discomfort at all, only to feel a sense of panic when you’re handed the bill?
There’s no question that dental services can be very expensive. And since so many Americans are without dental insurance coverage, those staggering bills must often be paid out-of-pocket, putting a serious dent in their monthly budget.
In fact, inability to pay for the high cost of dental care has led many people to simply avoid going to the dentist altogether until an emergency situation makes it necessary.
Of course, refusing to visit the dentist is not advised. In fact, it can be dangerous. So how can you stop overpaying and ensure you get the best care at the best price?
Take excellent care of your teeth
"Brushing, flossing, and rinsing can remove the food particles and sugar that attract billions of bacteria to your teeth"
It sounds simple, and in many ways, it is: If you take good care of your teeth on your own, your overall dental bills are typically going to be lower.
Proper home care oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing once a day, and rinsing daily with an antibacterial mouthwash, is the easiest and most effective way to keep your teeth and gums healthy, clean, and strong. That means less plaque on your teeth, which means less tartar buildup, which makes your professional dental cleaning much quicker and easier.
Plus, brushing, flossing, and rinsing can remove the food particles and sugar that attract billions of bacteria to your teeth. It’s the result of those bacteria that actually causes cavities, which can easily spread into the gums too, causing painful and dangerous periodontal disease.
Taking excellent care of your teeth works on two fronts:
- It keeps your teeth clean, healthy, and strong so they need less help from the dentist.
- It eliminates the main causes of dental issues that require unexpected trips to the dentist.
Take the time to shop around
If you have dental insurance, be sure to choose a participating provider so you can take advantage of that coverage.
Whether you have insurance or not, it’s also a good idea to call around to various dentists who are near you and compare prices. Because two offices in the same area can have a widely varied price lists, it’s important to get an idea of the average cost among the practices you contact. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for a discount wherever you consider going.
Research dental discount cards
Speaking of discounts, getting one that’s guaranteed can be both easier and more valuable on your journey to affordable dental care.
Buy signing up for a dental discount card like the one offered by Dental Solutions, you instantly receive 20%-50% off the normal cost of both general and advanced dental services at any of the participating dentists nationwide. No shopping around necessary. Just make your appointment, show them your card, and pay less.
If you’re currently without dental insurance, joining a dental discount program could be your opportunity to stop overpaying for necessary dental care.
