What are my options if I don't have dental insurance?
As we age, our teeth become more vulnerable to decay, discolouration, erosion and breakage – all things that require the attention of a dentist. But for many reasons, not all of us have dental insurance.
There are many people that are self-employed or partially employed which typically does not provide dental insurance. Others are retired. No matter the reason, if you’re without insurance there are a few things you can do.
You can look into personal dental coverage.
You may be able to purchase dental insurance coverage privately for a monthly fee. Several insurance companies sell dental insurance plans to self-employed individuals and those who do not have coverage through an employer. Ask your insurance company about the right plan for you.
Talk to your dentist about the financial options available.
Talk to the administrative team at your dental office to find out of they offer a payment plan or financing that could help you manage your dental costs. At Oakmount Dental, we accept most insurance plans and can speak with you about any financial concerns that you have if you do not have your own dental insurance.
Look into charity events sponsored by dentists or dental associations.
Some non-profit dental associations host events where dentists offer free or low-cost dental services. These can be great for patients who would otherwise forgo attending dental appointments due to financial constraints.
Have your services performed at a dental school.
Dental schools offer good quality dental treatment at reduced costs so students going through training can gain experience. These students are closely supervised by licensed dentists who check each phase of their work.
while these appointments may take more time than what you are used to, they are overseen by a qualified professional ensuring that you are always in good hands.
Start taking preventive measures early.
One way to make your dental bills less costly in the long run is to ensure you have a great oral care routine. Remember to brush at least twice daily for two minutes each time, and floss at least once a day.
This helps keep plaque, bacteria and gum disease at bay and can prevent having to visit a dental emergency clinic.
And while it may seem counter-intuitive, be sure to visit your dentist regularly for routine checkups and preventive care. These visits do come with a fee, but they could help you avoid more costly treatments down the road because any developing problems can be caught early on when they are still relatively straightforward to treat.
What is the cost of visiting the dentist without insurance?
There are a number of factors that can affect the overall cost of your dental services and not all insurance has full coverage. We can provide an estimate for any procedures you may require.
