How To Save Money On Dentistry
Nobody loves going to the dentist. First, there's the pain and discomfort; then, there's the big bill! Thankfully, there are some reliable ways to save on dental care and still keep your teeth in good health.
1. Take better care of your teeth at home.
The better you care for your teeth, the fewer cavities and instances of gum disease you will have over your lifetime. So make sure you are thoroughly brushing for at least two minute twice per day, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. Steer clear of sugary foods when possible, and when you do eat sugar, rinse your mouth out with some water afterwards. Chewing sugar free gum between meals can also help, since it boosts saliva production and helps rinse sugar and bacteria off your teeth.
2. Attend your dental cleaning appointments.
While you might think that skipping dental cleaning appointments will save you money, the opposite is actually true. By attending these regular dental cleanings once or twice per year, you ensure tartar gets removed from your gumline. Tartar can lead to cavities, which may later require fillings or root canals, and you can't remove tartar yourself. Getting your teeth cleaned regularly will cost less than repairing all those fillings.
3. Consider buying dental insurance.
Dental insurance is not worth it for everyone. If you hardly ever get cavities, you may pay more for the insurance than you would pay for your yearly dental care. But if you do have a history of tooth decay, dental insurance is usually a good investment. Most policies will cover the majority of the cost if you need anything like a filling or root canal.
4. Go to a university dental office.
If you have a university with a dental school near you, give them a call and see if they are looking for patients. Dental schools usually offer discounted rates on dental procedures. The students will work on you, but under the supervision of more senior dentists — so you are ensured to get good care. There are often waiting lists, so this may not be the best option if you have a toothache or otherwise need immediate treatment, but it is a great way to save on more in-depth procedures like root canals and crowns.
Dental care can be expensive, especially if you don't have a history of good tooth care. However, with the tips above, you can at least get some affordable dentistry.
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