Getting your kids into the dentist’s chair is hard enough without worrying about the bill that follows. Unfortunately, while you may be able to calm your child before their appointment, there’s no getting around the cost of good oral health.
Even if you have dental insurance, dental bills can be hard to handle. Depending on your insurance plan, you may be stuck paying out-of-pocket before you receive compensation, or you may still have to pay a large deductible on your own.
When you get down to it, taking care of your children’s teeth is stressful, but there are ways to handle this expense without stress. Check out these tips below to help you afford your next trip.
Only Borrow in Emergencies
Since dentist’s recommend you book a checkup every once or twice a year, these appointments are an expected expense in your budget. You should treat these bills just like you would your housing costs that is, you should set aside a small amount of your income each month so that you can afford it.
However, an emergency can come out of the blue, like when your daughter tries to take a bite out of a jawbreaker and chips her tooth in the process. She needs dental attention right away, not in the time it takes you to save up what you need.
In this situation, a consumer installment loan may be the right option. Here’s what you need to know about how a consumer loan like an installment loan or line of credit can help in a dental emergency.
Just note that while a consumer loan may act as a safety net for unexpected dental emergencies, they aren’t designed for routine cleanings.
Consider Changing Your Dentist
You may have been with the same dentist for years, but it may be time to break it off if they serve up a big bill with each visit. There may be no need to pay this price, as dental colleges and non-profit clinics offer a more affordable option for the same quality of care.
1. Dental Colleges
A dental college lower prices because you’re doing them a favor you’re letting students gain experience in an academic setting supervised by practicing dentists. You may also see a discount because these dentists-in-training typically take longer to perform cleanings and other procedures. As long as you have the time, these colleges offer budget-friendly access to dental health.
2. Public or Non-Profit Clinics
Another way to shave money off your next bill is by making an appointment with a community health center or government health department. These organizations receive funding from taxpayers and philanthropists, which lets them reduce their fees. While some charities may offer donated dental services at no cost, most will provide care on a sliding scale based on what you can afford.
Bottom Line
Staying on top of your family’s dental health can be a huge challenge when you’re on a tight budget, but skipping appointments may inadvertently put your children’s overall well-being at risk. Luckily, you may not have to skip another appointment again as long as you budget carefully and try alternative dental care.
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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