Even if you are a diligent brusher and flosser, regular dental visits are still a necessary step to achieve optimal oral health. However, many people put their routine dental visits on hold for various reasons. For some, it may be an effort to save some money. The truth is that you can save money when you visit your dentist every six months. Here are some of the ways that seeing your dentist can help you save money.
Prevents Tooth Decay
Even if you are an excellent brusher and flosser, there are always going to be places that you miss. This is where your routine dental cleanings come into play. During your visit, your hygienist will clear away buildups of plaque and tartar that will eventually lead to decay. Your dentist will check for existing decay so it can be treated sooner rather than later. By opting for a filling now, you might be able to avoid the need for root canal treatment or an extraction later on. Both of these treatments are more invasive and have a higher out-of-pocket cost, even if you have dental insurance.
Wards Off Gum Disease
Every time you have a checkup, your dentist examines your smile for signs of gum disease. This condition is very common. Approximately half of American adults over the age of 30 have gum disease at one stage or another. The good news is that this condition is very easy to prevent and can even 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 – like heart disease and diabetes. B addressing gum disease with your dentist now and working on a solution, you can save money on future restorations and invasive gum disease treatments.
Reduces Staining
At the end of your dental cleaning, your hygienist polishes your teeth using a gritty material known as prophylaxis paste. This helps to break apart those surfaces stains that are caused by smoking, drinking, coffee, and aging. By having this done regularly, you are less likely to feel the need to invest in cosmetic services to reverse discoloration in the future.
Detects Oral Cancer
Your dentist checks for this deadly disease during your checkups. When detected early on, it can often be easily treated, and patients can make a full recovery. However, since it progresses so quickly, missing a single dental visit could mean that you need intensive chemotherapy and other invasive, costly treatments. Remember that your dental visits not only save you money, but they can save your life!
If it’s been a while since your last visit, now is a great time for you to schedule an appointment. By utilizing your dental insurance benefits, you can save your wallet in the long run!
About the Practice
At Dental Group West, we have a team of skilled dentists serving patients in Toledo. With their combined experience and expertise, patients can get pretty much anything they need under one roof. If you have any questions or concerns about your dental insurance plan, a member of our staff would be happy to assist you. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit our website or call (419) 539-2168.