Finding a good oral care professional

A Tight Budget Doesn't Mean You Have To Skimp On Dental Work by Christine OKelly

It may seem easy to put off a trip to the dentist, especially as the economy takes a downturn and money becomes tight. However, you may not be doing yourself any favors by doing this. The reality of the matter is that it may actually increase your expenses in the long run, especially if your dental problem becomes an emergency situation. Keeping regular dental appointments will go a long way in not only keeping teeth healthy, but your overall health may also improve as well. Here are a few tips that will save you some money and still provide you with a healthy smile.

Find A Qualified Dentist

When looking for a qualified oral care professional, you can never go wrong asking your friends and relatives. They will never hesitate to pass on the name of a good oral care professional once they've found one. It's often a mistake to choose a dentist strictly on the prices that are charged by his practice. If you do make a selection this way, be sure to obtain a list of references and then follow through and check them out. Failure to do so could result in dental work that may not be performed correctly and that ends up costing you much more in the long run.

How Can I Pay For This?

Never be afraid to be upfront and honest with your dentist when it comes to payment. Most professionals will be able to work out a payment plan if necessary so you can still have the required work performed and not break your budget. Check with your employer to see if dental coverage is an option or if you can add this coverage to the list of available options. Flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts are another possibility. You may be able to transfer pre-tax money into these accounts or deduct the amount you contribute from your taxes.

Treatment Options

When the professional tells you that a treatment is going to be required, don't be afraid to inquire about any alternative treatments that may be available. Sometimes the dentist can recommend a cheaper option that may work. For example, will a basic filling do the same job as a composite? Although it may be a more temporary solution now, if it's more affordable and you can have it redone when money is not so tight, it may be worth considering.

Sometimes optional treatments will have alternatives as well. This is true for teeth whitening procedures. Professionally done teeth whitening such as the Zoom method will be more expensive than do it yourself home kits. Another example would be asking if bonding could substitute for porcelain veneers. One is less expensive than the other, but each has their own advantages and disadvantages. Don't be afraid to discuss options with your dentist.

Get Regular Checkups

Don't put off seeing your dental professional on a regular basis. It's much better to catch a problem in the early stages than waiting until it becomes an emergency. A simple cavity can be filled in one sitting, whereas a root canal and crown may be required if the problem is let go too long. Having your teeth cleaned every six months will keep the tartar build up off your teeth that can lead to gum disease.

If you fail to have regular checkups and meet the minimum standards required for good oral hygiene, this can result in numerous costly visits to correct the problem.

For those patients looking for an affordable dentist, Lombard, Wheaton, and other areas have many qualified oral care professionals that will be more than happy to work with you on an individual basis. Don't put off a short visit thinking that you're saving money in the long run.

About the Author

Christine O'Kelly is an author for Grove Dental. To find a dentist, Wheaton area patients are served by the Grove Dental group. For others in need of a dentist, Lombard and several other areas are served by this group as well.