Oral healthcare can often be a problem for many individuals. While some may struggle to keep their appointments out of fear, others begin to worry they will be unable to afford regular treatment. As a result, they cancel these visits only to experience worsening symptoms and painful problems. If you are worried that your next checkup will be too costly, learn why your dental insurance can help save your oral health and wallet.
How Avoiding the Dentist Can Lead to More Problems
Just because you think your teeth and gums are fine doesn’t mean they are. Pain or discoloration are not the only symptoms that indicate a problem.
Over time, enamel erosion, gum recession, inflammation, infection, and damage can affect your smile and oral health. Without regular treatment, these issues can worsen, resulting in costly services.
Choosing to see your dentist every six months for regular checkups and cleanings and seeking additional help should an injury or infection occur, is the right option for your smile and savings account.
How Can Dental Insurance Make a Difference?
Enrolling in a dental insurance plan is an investment you will not regret, especially since it can help you avoid high out-of-pocket expenses associated with preventive and restorative care.
There are a few important details you should know about if you want to get the most out of your plan:
- Most companies provide 80-100% coverage for preventive services, like dental checkups and cleanings. Instead of paying the average of $250-$300 for these visits out of pocket, your insurer will likely pick up the tab so that you stay on top of your oral health throughout the year.
- Dental benefits are usually only good for one calendar year. Benefits do not roll over in most cases, so using them while you have access to them will ensure you don’t lose valuable funds come January 1.
- Once you meet your annual deductible, which is usually quite low, your dental insurance will begin to cover more of any eligible restorative treatment you need (i.e., dental fillings, dental crowns, dentures, root canals, tooth extractions, etc.).
If you do not have a private dental insurance plan, do not assume regular oral healthcare is out of the question. Instead, many dentists provide alternative payment options that can make it easier to budget for these visits.
Don’t let your oral health fall to the wayside just because you think you can’t afford the necessary care. Use the benefits made available to you through your dental insurance plan and start experiencing the difference a healthier smile can make.
About our Author
Dr. Tyler May is a talented and compassionate dentist in Heber City who completed dental school in 2007 at The Ohio State University. After practicing for two years in Amarillo, TX, he and his wife returned to Utah. With extensive training in various fields of dentistry (i.e., dental implants, endodontics, and oral surgery), he cares about providing top-rate care to residents in the area. He and Dr. Mark Bowles are pleased to welcome many popular dental insurance plans as well as an in-house membership plan to keep out-of-pocket costs low. If you need help determining how you can afford to visit our office, check out our website.