Dental emergencies can strike when you least expect it, and as a result you may suddenly have to figure out how you’re going to fit the cost of urgent dental care into your budget. But if you don’t have dental insurance, how can you pay for the treatment that you need to relieve your pain and restore the health of your smile? Here are some key tips to keep in mind if you want to make emergency dental care as affordable as possible.
Seek Treatment as Soon as You Can
If you don’t have dental insurance, your first instinct may be to try to ignore the problem altogether. More often than not, though, this will only make the situation worse. Untreated dental issues have a tendency to grow more severe over time, resulting in the need for even more complex and costly care. As such, it’s in the best interest of your oral health and your bank account to seek treatment right away.
Be Aware of Your Options
Dental emergencies can come in many different forms and can have a variety of causes. As such, the type of treatment that’s right for you can vary depending on the specifics of your case. When your dentist gives you their recommendation for emergency dental care, be sure to ask about all of your available options and the costs involved. It’s easier to make the right decision for your smile and your wallet when you have all of the necessary information.
Ask About Dental Financing
Many dental practices let patients use financing to make covering the cost of their care less stressful. Essentially, financing allows you to pay in installments rather than in a single lump sum. This makes it easier to find room in your budget for unexpected emergency procedures. Don’t be afraid to ask your dentist what financing options are available.
Do What You Can to Avoid Dental Emergencies
Of course, you won’t have to worry about paying for urgent dental care if you never have a dental emergency in the first place. And while there’s no way to perfectly guarantee that serious dental issues won’t happen, there are plenty of precautions you can take to protect your smile. To lower your risk for dental emergencies, you can:
- Brush your teeth thoroughly at least two times a day with fluoride-based toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Floss on a daily basis in order to remove harmful plaque and food particles from the hard-to-reach spaces between your teeth.
- Limit your intake of sugary and starchy foods that can increase your risk for tooth decay and gum disease.
- Visit your dentist every six months for a checkup and cleaning.
Even if you’re worried about your financial situation, the health of your smile still needs to be a priority. If you ever require emergency dental care, don’t hesitate to speak to your dentist to learn how you can make the cost more manageable.
About the Author
Dr. Charles A. Parker is originally from Wylie, but he has been practicing general dentistry in Marshall since 1981. He is currently a proud member of the East Texas Dental Society and the American Dental Association. He offers same-day appointments for patients who need emergency dental treatment. If you want to schedule an emergency visit with Dr. Parker at Marshall Denture Clinic, contact our office by calling (903) 935-6351.