In America alone, dentists tend to charge an estimate of $200 or more for a simple routine and cleaning exam, which is the main reason why many people prefer to skip the annual regular check-up. After all, covering up cavities can cost you several hundreds of dollars, while total fees for dentures and braces can make you a run for your money. I
n retrospect, the amount of fees is often too big for people to take a bite off, especially when you don’t have dental coverage from your business as well as insurance, which leads you to do out-of-pocket spending.
The very same reason caused a decrease in dental insurance to 5.7% from 2009 to 2010, and the number doesn’t seem to plan on rising any time soon. It may seem like a bank-breaking effort to pursue the dental care you need, but rather than let your teeth rot away, there are several cost-effective measures you can take to get the quality dental care service you deserve.
Tip #1: Participate in Medical Studies
There are at least two dental or dental hygiene programs in every state, all of which are filled with students that are undergoing hands-on training in preparation for their graduation. This is one of the most cost-saving hacks you can do as most medical schools offer to treat dental conditions at least half the price of what you would get in a more established clinic.
However, that doesn't mean that the quality will suffer as these students are equally trained, and not to mention, professional dentists and mentors are present to oversee the program. The downside to this is that the procedure - whether tooth replacement, root canal cleaning, and more, will typically take longer as each step are checked and guided by a licensed supervisor.
On a more positive note, this is an opportunity that can help restore the form and function of your teeth for a bang for the buck.
Tip #2: Use Free or Low-Cost Dental Providers
For low-income workers and patients with no insurance, many charitable organizations are available in local communities that operate on a sliding scale wherein your dental rates depend on your income. It can easily be done by searching from your local branch, or by simply contacting your state’s dental association, which most information can be found on the website of the American Dental Association.
The site hosts a list of available clinics that can operate on a sliding scale, not to mention, for those who simply do not have the means to afford dental care due to a lack of income, some services offer free medical care strictly for patients struggling with a minimum wage income.
Tip #3: Take Advantage of Online Coupons and Savings
It can feel like a scavenger hunt scrolling for daily deals on multiple dental websites, but it can feel like a complete jackpot once you find a medical clinic that provides coupons and deals on minor dental care services like cleaning or fillings.
While the discounted rates aren’t jaw-dropping, any penny saved is more than enough as dental bills typically cost hundreds - if not thousands of dollars.
If you’re looking for affordable dentistry, get in touch today to see how we can help!