When the time rolls around for a regular checkup at your dentist, a thought to cancel it may have crossed your mind. Maybe you are looking for ways to save some money, but by avoiding these visits, you can be harming both your wallet and your oral health! Consistent checkups and cleanings are cost-effective options compared to the dental problems they prevent. Read on to learn how visiting your dentist every six months can help keep your bank account happy by thwarting future costly treatments.
Why Routine Checkups Are Important
Routine dental appointments are more than just polishing up your teeth! They are essential for your oral health as your dentist can track changes to it. Through X-rays, an examination, and removal of hardened tartar, they find early warning signs of dental issues like gum disease or tooth decay.
These proactive steps can stop minor concerns from turning into major problems, keeping your smile happy and healthy.
How Will Going to Regular Visits Save Me Money?
Consistent checkups and cleanings are considered preventive treatments, as they prevent larger oral health issues. Your dentist can understand what your mouth needs to stay in top shape since dental problems can’t heal on their own, so you’ll need your dentist’s help to solve them.
For instance, some of the most common oral health issues are tooth decay and gum disease. When left untreated, both treatments can lead to tooth loss. This may require a dental implant to replace the missing tooth.
Also, a damaged tooth is more susceptible to an infection in the inner pulp. To save the tooth and alleviate discomfort, a root canal and dental crown may be needed. Compared to the couple of hundred dollars for preventive dental care, the latter treatments can range from several hundred to even thousands of dollars.
What Payment Options Does My Dentist Have?
The good news is that your dentist has ways to help make these appointments more affordable for you! Your dentist may accept dental insurance, which typically covers around 80-100% of twice-yearly checkups. With it, you can get the care you need without worrying about your wallet.
Moreover, your dentist may have financing options through third-party financiers. CareCredit is a type of credit line that more and more dental offices are accepting. It offers low-to-no financing plans so that you can fit any costs more comfortably into your budget. When you know what your dentist offers regarding payment options, you can feel better about getting the treatments you need.
For more cost-effective trips to the dentist, head to your routine checkups and cleanings! Your dentist wants to ensure that you feel great about your oral health without hurting your bank account. Don’t hesitate to call them about what dental insurance they accept and other payment options they offer.
About the Author
Dr. Kathy Lam earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery from Howard University College of Dentistry. She believes in a proactive approach to dentistry, meaning she works to stop oral health issues before they become a major headache for you. To help make preventive care more affordable,
Dr. Lam is a proud in-network provider with many dental insurance plans, including BlueCross BlueShield, United Healthcare, and Aetna Dental, to name a few. She also accepts CareCredit to ensure your treatments can fit into your budget. To schedule your next regular checkup or if you have any questions, schedule an appointment or call us at (630) 653-7720.