How Can Visiting Your Dentist Save You Money?

Even if you are the most disciplined brusher and flosser in the world, regular dental visits are still a necessary step to achieve optimal oral health. However, people put these visits on hold for a variety of reasons. For many, it is an effort to save some money. The truth is that by seeing your dentist every six months, you are likely to spend less in the long run. Here are some ways that dental visits help you save.

Prevents Tooth Decay

Even if you are an excellent brusher and flosser, there will always be places in your mouth that you miss. This is where your routine cleanings can checkups come in. During your visit, your hygienist will clear away buildups of plaque and tartar that can result in cavities. Your dentist will check for existing decay so it can be treated as soon as possible. By opting for a dental filling early, you may be able to avoid the need for root canal treatment or an extraction in the future. Both of these treatments are more invasive and have a higher out-of-pocket cost, even if you have dental insurance.

Ward Off Gum Disease

Every time you go for a checkup, your dentist examines your smile for signs of gum disease. This condition is extremely common. Approximately half of American adults over the age of 30 have gum disease at one severity or another. Fortunately, this condition is preventable and can be reversed in its early stages. However, when left without treatment, gum disease can cause gum recession, loose teeth, and tooth loss. It has even been linked to other medical issues in the body – some being life threatening! By addressing gum disease now and working towards a solution, you can save money on future restorations and treatments later on.

Reduce Staining

At the end of your dental cleaning, your dentist polishes your teeth using a gritty material called “prophylaxis paste.” This helps to break apart those surface stains that are a result of smoking, drinking coffee, and aging. By having this done routinely, you are less likely to feel the need to invest in cosmetic dental treatment to reduce discoloration later on.

Early Detection of Oral Cancer

Your dentist checks for this deadly disease at the beginning of all of your checkups. When detected early, it can often be easily treated, and the patient can make a full recovery. However, since oral cancer progresses so quickly, missing a single dental visit could mean invasive, costly treatments. Your dental visits don’t just save you money – they can save your life!

If you haven’t been to the dentist in the last six months, now is the time to get back on track. By staying on top of your dental health, you can get the most out of your benefits and save money in the long run!

About the Author

Dr. George T. Philip has been working in the field for more than two decades! He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from the Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Currently, he is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. For more information or to schedule an appointment at his office in Sunnyvale, visit his website or call (972) 285-6144.