Many people view going to the dentist as a luxury instead of a necessity. However, your oral health and overall wellness are connected. Healthy teeth and gums are important for your general well-being. Unfortunately, brushing and flossing aren’t enough to keep your mouth healthy. The American Dental Association recommends a dental cleaning and checkup every 6 months. You have many options to keep routine appointments and dental work affordable, like dental insurance and discount savings plans. Here’s what you need to know to choose the best option for your needs.
How Dental Insurance Works
Dental insurance focuses on prevention to stop common oral health issues from occurring in the first place. This prevents needing costly dental procedures down the road, reducing overall oral health expenses. Although every policy differs, most include:
- 100% of Preventive Dentistry
- 80% of Basic Dental Work
- 50% of Major Dental Services
Your premiums allow you to benefit from discounted rates for the services you need for a healthy smile. You can visit your dentist twice a year after a co-payment. Upon meeting your annual deductible, your insurance will cover some of the costs for medically necessary treatments until you reach your yearly limit. At the end of the year, your dental benefits expire and your policy resets.
Understanding a Discount Dental Plan
A discount dental plan differs from insurance. You pay a monthly or annual fee to enjoy reduced rates for common services from a specific dentist. This can be a great option for people who don’t have dental insurance. Every in-house membership plan is unique, but most include discounted rates for cleanings and checkups, basic dental work, and other services.
Contrary to what you might have heard, going to the dentist doesn’t have to cost an arm or a leg. Besides dental insurance and in-house membership plans, many dentists also accept third-party financing, like CareCredit. Based on your credit approval, you can benefit from little or no interest in financing to make monthly installments on any out-of-pocket costs.
You can avoid unnecessary dental work and adverse health complications by visiting your dentist regularly. They will help you find the financial solutions you need to achieve optimal oral health without spending your life’s savings.
About Dr. Donald Bond
Dr. Bond earned his dental degree at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry and has continued his education in various specialties. He accepts many dental insurance plans to keep dentistry affordable. He also offers an in-house membership plan. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (302) 444-8985.