Let’s be real; dental care is not cheap. We know that it can cost a pretty penny to afford proper dental care and that the inability to afford it can cause overwhelming stress and anxiety. That’s why we have created a list of a few tips to help you figure out how you can afford dental care and finally get the care your teeth need.
Go to a dentist without insurance
When you go to a dentist without insurance, you are going to be paying out of pocket, and that almost always results in higher costs. So, if you don’t have insurance, you may want to check out dental schools in your area. At the dental schools, the dental students can perform services cheaper than a normal dentist would be able to because they are not fully licensed yet. This may sound like a risky move, but if you are in a pinch, it is a safe and inexpensive route to go with.
Save money elsewhere
It is a great idea to lay out all your finances to make sure they are in order. When you are on track with your finances, you can see where you can cut costs and save money. Are you able to figure out a DIY drain blockage fix instead of calling a plumber? Can you figure out a way to slash your energy bills and save some money there? Or can you see if you can make some home improvements on a budget, instead of hiring a pricey contractor? If you can pull any of these ideas off, then you may be able to pinch your pennies and put them toward your dental care.
See if you can barter with a local dentist
If you are in a small town and have a small business of your own, you may be able to barter with your local dentist and exchange your goods for their services. Maybe you can offer them gardening services in exchange for a filling treatment, or you can offer them floral bouquets for their next office event in exchange for a root canal. Think of what you can offer and see if they are willing to take you up on the trade. The worst they can say is no, but if they are willing, you can get the services you need for a great bargain.
Take the proper steps to have good dental hygiene
When it comes to being able to afford dental care, you want to be sure that you are taking the proper steps to take care of your teeth in the first place. If you aren’t, you are sabotaging yourself and contributing to your inability to pay for dental work down the line. You have to do the work to be able to see the benefits. So, stick to brushing your teeth 2 to 3 times a day, floss at least once before you go to bed, adding additional time after a particularly sugary or acidic drink or meal, and use mouthwash to rinse after drinking coffee or soda. You have to be willing to do the work to see the benefits.
Start a dental savings plan
See if your health insurance company or your employer provides you with a Health Savings Account (HSA), and learn what your monthly contribution amount can be. Even if you are only putting in $20-30 every paycheck, that can add up quickly. An HSA is a great way to put away money for health expenses and have it waiting there for you when you need it. And the good news is it can only be used on health services, so you won’t be tempted to spend it elsewhere (like on that new pair of shoes or outfit that is calling your name).
We hope these tips help you to afford the dental care that your teeth need.