Reduce Your Dental Costs with a Trip to Your Dentist

Brushing and flossing your teeth are great steps to take at home to protect the health of your teeth and gums; however, it is only half of the care your smile needs. It is also best to see your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. Unfortunately, a Gallup poll found that one-third of adults did not schedule an appointment last year. Too often, it is believed that you only need to see your dentist after a problem has developed. It is often thought that routine appointments are a waste of money, but that is not true. Regular cleanings and checkups will lower your long-term cost for care.

 Why Do I Need to See My Dentist?

The American Dental Association recommends that everyone sees their dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup—even if you do not currently have dental concerns. Dentistry is designed to prevent oral health problems from developing in the first place. As a result, routine appointments will reduce your risk for preventable issues from developing, like tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, it offers early detection for current complications to allow for quick treatment. This helps to reduce the need for a costly or invasive procedure in the future.

Although you may feel you are saving money by not seeing your dentist, this is not true either. In fact, it is estimated that every dollar spent on preventive care saves $8 to $50 on restorative or emergency services.

One area of preventive dentistry that is proven to reduce dental costs involves dental sealants. They are proven to reduce the development of tooth decay by as much as 80%. As a result, you will reduce the need for treatments due to cavities.

Routine dental care does not just save you money when it comes to your oral health expenses either. It helps to reduce missed days from work and school. It is estimated that children are 3 times more likely to miss school and 28% of adults miss work due to dental problems that could have been avoided with regular dental care.

Semi-annual appointments can also help to reduce your healthcare costs as well. It is estimated that one in six Americans will have a dental emergency this year, many of which could be avoided with preventive care. Of those who have a dental emergency, as much as 40% of people head to a local hospital for care. Unfortunately, ERs are not equipped to handle the problem, leaving it untreated. As a result, 39% will return to the ER in the future.

Invest in Your Smile

If you think your home oral hygiene habits are enough to protect your smile, it is time to reconsider your approach. Although brushing and flossing are important, it is best to see your dentist twice a year. You will keep your teeth and gums healthy to reduce your long-term costs for care.

About STEC Cosmetic & Family Dentistry

STEC Cosmetic & Family Dentistry is committed to creating healthy smiles that last for a lifetime. We offer the preventive services you need to protect your teeth and gums. We will help keep costs affordable by utilizing your dental insurance. Now is the time to invest in your smile with a cleaning and checkup. Contact our office today to schedule your appointment.