If you’re like many people, you probably don’t expect to ever need an emergency dentist, but accidents can happen with no warning. 1 in 6 Americans has a dental emergency annually. If you need a dentist in a hurry, the last thing you should be worried about is how you’re going to pay the bill because you don’t have insurance. Here’s how much it’s going to cost to visit an emergency dentist if you don’t have dental coverage.
Don’t Wait to See a Dentist
As with any emergency, time is of the utmost importance. Whether you’ve knocked out a tooth, lost a filling, or have a toothache, do not wait to see a dentist. Delaying treatment will cause the issue to worsen, which can cause irreversible damage to your smile. Instead of a minor fix, you can lose your tooth. Not to mention, treatment will be more expensive because you’ll require a more complex procedure. It’s best to see a dentist right away, instead of waiting to see if the problem goes away on its own.
Factors Influencing the Cost of Emergency Dentistry
There’s no flat fee for emergency dentistry because every situation is unique. As a result, many factors will affect the amount you will pay. Besides an initial consultation, your dentist may require X-rays or other diagnostic images of your mouth. Depending on the results, they’ll recommend a procedure that fits your needs and budget.
Options for Affordable Emergency Dentistry
If you don’t have dental insurance, you have options to keep your treatment affordable, like third-party financing. Based on your credit approval, you can pay any out-of-pocket expenses using monthly installments through a financing company, like CareCredit. You can enjoy little or no interest in financing to get the care you need without breaking the bank.
Avoid Dental Emergencies
Although you can’t always stop a dental emergency from occurring, you can do many things to lower your risk of one, like brushing and flossing. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy will prevent common oral health issues, like cavities and gum disease. It’s best to break any bad habits that can damage your teeth, like chewing on ice or biting your fingernails. Don’t forget to wear an athletic mouthguard if you play sports. Besides caring for your smile at home, visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. For every $1 spent on preventative services, you can save up to $50 on restorative and emergency fees.
Don’t let your financial situation or lack of insurance stand in the way of seeing a dentist. Your emergency dentist will help you find the solutions you need to save your smile.
About Dr. Marc Henry Scoles
Dr. Scoles earned his dental degree from the New Jersey College of Medicine and Dentistry and has regularly continued his education to provide up-to-date services. With over 40 years of experience, Dr. Scoles can treat the most complex oral health issues. He is a proud member of many professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Connecticut Dental Association. Request an appointment through our website or call (860) 200-2170.