Can't afford to go to the dentist?
Reach out to oral health charities If you’re suffering physically and emotionally from dental problems yet lack the funds to pay for treatment, try getting in touch with oral health charities such as Dentaid and the Oral Health Foundation, to see if they can offer help paying for dental treatment. Do dentists charge upfront?
Can you go to a dentist without insurance?
Oct 20, 2016 · In many cases treatment can be done over time which makes it more affordable. This is where treatment planning comes in. Treatment can be phased --- Phase I treatment can be completed and the patient can be put into holding pattern. When Phase II treatment (definitive restorative) is affordable it to can be sequenced.
Is it possible to get dental care on a budget?
What can I do if I can’t afford dental treatment? Your state or local health department may know of programs in your area that offer free or reduced-cost dental care. Call your local or state health department to learn more about their financial assistance programs. Check your local telephone book for the number to call.
Can I get a loan to pay for dental treatment?
Sep 07, 2017 · Solway noted that dental clinics or dental schools often provide care at lower costs or with a sliding scale based on income. "There are options for people who can't afford getting care from a...
Talk to your dentist about a phased treatment plan
One way you can handle this is to talk to your dentist about your treatment plan to see if they can offer what is known as a phased treatment plan. A phased treatment plan spreads out the number of treatments over a longer period, which will reduce the amount of upfront costs by spacing them out over a series of visits.
Low-cost or low-income dental services
If you would like more information on low-cost dental services or low-income resources, visit the link here from the Department of Health and Human Services. The Colorado Dental Association also has a list of low-cost clinics available here, and dental care is also available at some of our Colorado Medical Dental Integration sites as well.
Additional help for dental treatment plans
One option is getting financing from your dental office. Many dental facilities offer in-house loans or financing. These can help with smaller expenses such as filings, or with bigger expenses like braces for the kids.
Stagger Appointments Based on Budget
They were correct in that it’s important to move through the work as quickly as possible. The sooner you do things, the less time cavities have to grow. Your fillings will stay fillings and not become crowns and/or root canals. That shouldn’t “scare” you, but it is an undeniable reality to keep in mind.
Save Where You Can
Each person has his or her own way of saving money. Some people stash it in an envelope while others have savings or checking accounts for specific expenses. You may also find a dentist who will let you build up a credit over time. Maybe send them $25-50 per week on an automatic payment until you build enough to have an appointment.
Ask About Payment Plans
While few offices will provide in-house financing, some accept CareCredit. It works like a credit card for health-related expenses at select providers and often has no interest for a period of time. Of course, you’ll want to pay it off before interest accrues if at all possible.
Find a New Dentist
A great office will hear your concerns and walk you through options like these here, so you can take care of your smile and feel good. The office you went to didn’t do any of that, so they’re probably not a good fit for you. Try a new office and communicate your concerns with them. It should work like a partnership. Best of luck to you.
What percentage of people don't have dental insurance?
In fact, 28 percent don't have dental insurance, while 56 percent don't get dental care except for serious dental problems, researchers said. Even more troubling is that 51 percent of people surveyed said they didn't know how they will get dental insurance after they turn 65, said lead researcher Erica Solway.
Does Medicare cover dental care?
But in fact, Medicare does not cover routine dental care, and Medicaid dental coverage is often limited to children, Solway said.
What is an uninsured dental plan?
These are typically payment structures that give you the chance to make reasonable monthly payments towards dental bills. Many clinics offer programs like this to uninsured individuals.
Is it important to visit a dentist?
Visiting a dentist on a regular basis is a very important part of good oral hygiene. Unfortunately, many people need free or low-cost dental care due to their financial circumstances. It can be hard to find these services at a price you can afford. Take a look at a few options below if you are wondering what to do when you can’t afford dental work ...
