When you go to the dentist, you may be more concerned about the cost of treatment than getting a shot. Only 77% of the population has dental insurance, and dental treatments can be costly, even when you have some coverage. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

4 Tips for Reducing Your Dentist Bill

1. Invest in Preventive Care

It may seem counterintuitive, but scheduling regular exams and cleanings can save you money in the long run. Teeth cleanings can prevent cavities and gum disease, and a dental exam can diagnose small problems before they turn into big ones. For example, getting a filling is less involved than a root canal and won’t hurt your pocketbook as much.

2. Evaluate Alternative Options

In many cases, there is more than one treatment option. For example, you can get an implant or a bridge to replace a missing tooth. You’re the only one who can tell the difference, and if the finances don’t work, getting a dental bridge may be your preferred choice.

3. Space Out Treatment

You should get the dental care you need, but if money is a problem, you can space it out. Ask your dentist to get the urgent things accomplished first, and schedule the rest of the dental work over the next few months. This allows you to save up money for the treatment, which is better than foregoing it altogether.

4. Use an HSA

You could pay for dental expenses with pre-tax dollars by taking advantage of a health savings account. A health savings account can be used to pay for other expenses not covered by your high-deductible health insurance too. If you don’t qualify for an HSA, you may be able to take advantage of low-interest financing options to pay the dental bill.

The staff at Bream Family Dental Care truly cares about their patients’ dental health, which is why they offer a wellness plan to provide dental care for the uninsured. Under this program, your dental procedures will be more affordable, and your preventive care is included. At Bream Family Dental Care, the staff focuses on educating their patients about their dental health and treatment options. These affordable dentists in Waynesboro, VA, are proud to provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages. Visit the website to learn more about the wellness plan, or call the office at (540) 949-7246 to schedule an appointment.