![Piggy bank sitting on top of false teeth](https://www.drsongfm.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/AdobeStock_258175423__1717092569_79736-300x169.jpg)
These days, if you want a shot of adrenaline, all you have to do is take a trip to the grocery store and watch as five simple items rack up a $60 bill. Thinking about medical expenses is tantamount to several spins on the teacup ride at an amusement park – dizzying, disorienting, and nauseating.
You’re not alone if you’ve been skipping out on dental visits to save money. However, long-term economic downturns require long-term solutions. Keep reading to find out how your dentist can help you pinch your pennies for the long-haul.
The Snowball of Medical Math
Medical issues, including dental ones, often have a snowball effect. One minute you’re dealing with a toothache, then a cavity, and the next thing you know you’re having to choose between a filling and a tooth extraction. If you restore your tooth with a filling, the costs stop there. But with an extraction, you’ll need a bridge or implant replacement – otherwise your jaw will change shape over time, triggering another set of expenses.
It’s better to catch potential dental complications before they snowball into bigger issues that cost more money. Professional, routine cleanings kick nasty cavity-causers like bacteria and plaque out of your mouth and give your dentist a chance to evaluate your teeth for concerning signs. Even if you don’t have dental insurance, this is a case where a stitch in time will save you more than dimes.
How To Avoid a Dental Snowball Without Sacrificing Groceries
If you’re still struggling to justify the price of a cleaning or treatment, your next best course of action is to call your dentist. Your dentist wants to promote your health and can help you find an affordable solution. Two possible ways they can do this are to evaluate your insurance benefits or guide you through financing options.
If you have dental insurance, it can be difficult to know what exactly your provider will cover. Fortunately, dental offices handle insurance every day. Staff will be able to help de-code your insurance plan and maximize your benefits for maximum savings.
If you don’t have dental insurance, you can ask your dentist about flexible financing options. These programs break your expenses down into smaller, more manageable monthly payments. Most dentists partner with reputable, trusted companies such as CareCredit, which offer low- to no-interest plans. This means they’ll help support your financial security without slowly draining your wallet over time.
With the average cost of rent in Dallas being $1,559 per month, it can be tempting to cut dental visits out from the budget. But the state of your teeth impacts your overall health just as much as other medical concerns. Neglecting them can cause a snowball of complications and expenses. To spare yourself the grief and save money, call your dentist. They’ll know how to help you maintain both your teeth and your wallet!
About the Author
Dr. Rodger Song likes to start each consultation by letting his patients do the talking. He’ll listen to your dental and monetary concerns and do what he can to accommodate your needs. Thanks to his experience and high quality of care, you can rest easy knowing your dollars are being put to good use. Call 972-906-9797 to find out how Dr. Song and his practice can help you save money or visit his website for a full list of services.