5 Ways to Slash Dental Care Costs

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Have you visited the dentist lately? If so, you are aware of the hefty price tag that can accompany many services, both routine and nonroutine.

If you’re among the millions of Americans who don’t have dental insurance, you’re paying the full amount yourself. But there are ways to receive high-quality care without spending a lot of money. Here are five of them:

1. Try dental schools

A dental school is among the lowest-cost options for those who don’t carry dental coverage.

Skeptical about the level of care you’ll receive? Don’t be. Although the procedures may be done by students, they are well-supervised by seasoned instructors.

Bear in mind that you’ll likely spend more time at the dental school when receiving routine care. That is because instructors check the work of their students before you are released. The upside to the extra time is that your teeth and gums receive the thorough treatment they deserve.

Interested in giving a dental school a shot? Visit the American Dental Association’s website for a comprehensive listing of locations nationwide.

Also, consider dental hygienist schools for low-cost routine cleanings. You can find them here.

Here’s another possibility: The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research says you may be able to sign up for a clinical trial focusing on your particular dental needs. If so, you may get free or low-cost care. Go to the institute’s website to search for clinical trials.

2. Look for low-cost clinics

No dental school nearby? If you have limited income, look for a dental clinic associated with a federally funded community health center in your town or county. Such clinics charge for services on a sliding scale based on income. You can find them here.

3. Ask for discounts and avoid unnecessary care

If a dental school or community clinic is not an option, inquire about pricing and payment policies upfront before visiting a local provider. For instance, the dental office may give you a discount if you immediately pay the full bill. Ask about other discounts as well.

Compare prices between offices, which can vary widely. Talk to friends and read reviews to evaluate services if you’re looking for a new dentist. You want a dentist with fair prices and dependable care.

Check to see if the dentist has been disciplined by your state’s dental board. The ADA provides contact information for state boards here.

Also, be careful about accepting costly niche cosmetic services or extras you may not need, like a deep cleaning if you don’t have gum disease. A good dentist won’t try to talk you into a crown when a regular filling will do. Unfortunately, there are dentists who try to upsell patients.

Once you’ve received treatment, keep adequate records in case you receive a hefty bill after the fact for services you didn’t authorize.

4. Keep an eye on coverage limits

If you’re fortunate enough to have dental insurance through your workplace, be aware of the coverage limits.

The plan may cover the entire cost of one or two basic cleanings a year, but you’ll often be responsible to pay for half the cost of expensive procedures. Also, insurance usually doesn’t pay for cosmetic procedures.

If you don’t have insurance, look into dental discount plans, where participating dentists offer lower prices to plan members, who pay a fee every year. Be careful to choose a reputable company.

5. Don’t skip preventive maintenance

Taking care of your teeth — both at home and in the dental office — is a simple way to keep the cost of dental care under control.

That means brushing twice a day and flossing daily. It’s essential for the health of your teeth and gums.

Also make sure to visit your dentist regularly. According to the ADA, 100 million Americans skip dental visits each year, “even though regular dental examinations and good oral hygiene can prevent most dental disease.”

So, do yourself a favor and pay a visit to the dentist. And while in the dental chair, inquire about any additional tips that will help you maintain an optimal level of care at home.

Do you have any tips for reducing the cost of dental care? Share them in comments below or on our Facebook page.

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