Dental care services are often overlooked until an emergency arises. It’s highly recommended to avoid costly dental care expenses by taking the initiative now to prevent paying more later. Besides, your overall health may also depend on it, as your oral health can have a profound effect on your risk for disease and life-long health issues.
We will look at how to reduce dental care expenses and learn how preventive measures are only part of the solution.
How Often Do You Need to See a Dentist?
The answer depends on your personal oral health. Most people should have a dental checkup every four to six months. These regular visits should include an examination of the teeth and gums as well as a dental cleaning to remove plaque, tartar and stains.
During these appointments, your dentist can determine if there is a potential for gum disease or tooth decay. These and other oral problems can develop into more serious health conditions. If caught early, dental care can save you a great deal of pain and money in the long run.
Those patients with signs of dental problems should schedule an appointment at their earliest convenience, especially if the patient is experiencing pain that is not going away.
Ways to Lower Dental Care Expenses
In addition to regular checkups and immediately addressing any dental issues, there are steps to take to help lower your dental care expenses. First, talk to your dentist. Have an honest discussion about concerns for your oral care and the cost of visits to your budget.
Your dentist can offer suggestions or recommendations customized to your dental care that may help to reduce your costs. Changing your daily routine may be the first step to preventing future oral problems.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Prevention is key when it comes to your health, including your oral health. This involves practicing good oral hygiene every day. Brush and floss at least twice a day—once in the morning and before bed. And avoid sugary snacks such as candy and sugar drinks like pop, especially those containing citrus, which all can damage tooth enamel.
When brushing your teeth, be sure to use a soft-bristle toothbrush using short, horizontal strokes back and forth across the teeth and then sweep the brush away from the gumline. Brush the front, back and bottom of the teeth and gently brush the gumline. Timing your brushing may help, as we should all brush for at least two minutes each session.
Flossing is the best preventative method of removing tiny food particles and buildup between the teeth. This can help prevent bacteria from forming and hard buildup that only a dentist can remove. Also be sure to carry floss picks with you for times you eat away from home.
Get Dental Insurance
Most dental plans cover partial or full treatment of basic dental care such as cleanings, x-rays and often two checkups per year. Depending on your dental plan, you may be able to have certain treatments partially covered like fillings, crowns, or dentures.
One possible option may be setting up a treatment plan through your dentist’s office. More and more dentists offer in-house plans, particularly for those patients whose oral care may require several treatments.
Fully Understand Your Dental Costs
In the world of dentistry, there are terms the general public may find difficult to understand, let alone pronounce. It is important you understand the work and procedures your dentist is performing so be sure to ask questions.
Each procedure has its own price tag and you have the right to know and understand the dentist’s billing process. The dentist can provide an estimate for any treatment to be done before you decide to proceed.
Get Regular Checkups
We cannot stress the importance of having regular dental checkups. Just like a medical doctor, a dentist examines your oral health and assesses if there have been any significant changes between visits.
Patients who continuously have exceptional checkups may only need to see their dentist twice a year. Those with possible gum disease, excess plaque buildup or are concerned about sensitive teeth may want to schedule more frequent appointments.
Contact Princeview Dental Group Today!
To ensure you and your oral health are in top shape, choose a knowledgeable and caring team such as Princeview Dental Group. For more than 25 years, Princeview Dental Group has provided professional and friendly dental care to our patients in The Kingsway area.
Through our examination process, you will receive a complete detailed explanation of your oral health and any necessary procedures. Without judgment and the utmost respect, you can trust the commitment of Dr. Janice Mummery and her team. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you smile!
