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While dental care is critical to our general physical health, some of us don't have dental insurance to pay for exams, routine cleanings, emergencies and procedures. If this is the case for you, our Edmonton dentists can offer some tips on what to do next.
What should I do if I don’t have dental insurance?
Our teeth become more susceptible to erosion, discolouration, decay and breakage as we age. These are all things that will require your dentist's attention. However, for many reasons, not all of us have dental insurance.
Many people are self-employed, work only part-time or are precariously or occasionally employed, while others are retired. No matter the reason, there are a few things you can do to still get proper dental care if you are without dental insurance.
Purchase dental coverage.
You might be able to purchase dental insurance privately and pay a monthly fee. Many insurance companies sell dental insurance plans to self-employed people, and those who do not have coverage through an employer. Ask your insurance provider about the right plan for you.
Discuss payment plans or financing options with your dentist.
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 Azarko Dental Group, we offer WayDent Financing. You can fill out an application online to apply for dental financing.
We can also direct bill your insurance company and our administrative team will be happy to help you understand your insurance plan better.
Participate in a charity event.
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.
Go to 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.
Though your appointment may take longer than at your regular dentist’s office, the trade-off is that you can save significant cash.
Take preventive measures.
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.
How much does a dentist appointment cost without insurance?
The cost of dental procedures not covered by insurance can vary, depending on the procedure, the severity of your case and other factors. We can provide an estimate for any procedures you may require.