Discover the Best Methods to Cover Any Dental Work
Are you worried about struggling with a dental expense? It’s understandable to have that fear since dental work can be costly to afford. According to Humana, a panoramic X-ray can range from $100 to $200, while an amalgam dental filling can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 per tooth. However, if you need dental procedures, like implants or extractions, each operation can cost you up to thousands of dollars to arrange! Even if you have dental insurance, you may still have to pay the difference your provider may not cover on the bill.
It can be discouraging to consider dental work when you know how expensive it can be. Fortunately, there are various methods you can use to pay for what you need to keep your teeth healthy and clean. Simply find a strategy that fits your criteria and use it to cover the balance of your procedure.
Take a look at some of the best ways to pay for dental work without draining your entire budget:
Set Up a Payment Plan with Your Dentist
Let’s say you don’t have dental insurance to cover an important procedure. In that case, you can try to negotiate a payment plan with your dentist to pay for that expense over time. Depending on your dental provider, you may have the option to arrange an insurance plan through them instead of a regular insurance company. But, some dentists may only offer plans for a brief period of time, meaning that you’d have to renew it every time it expires.
It’s worth mentioning that dental providers can provide payment plans that cater to patients’ needs. For example, some dentists may offer zero-interest plans that allow you to pay your bill without any additional costs. In some cases, a dentist can organize a third-party financing plan, like CareCredit, to help you repay your expenses. However, it’s important to ask your dentist if they have a payment plan available before the procedure. If they don’t have that option, ensure you research dentists in your area who can provide you with assistance. But before you settle with a provider, you must compare each payment plan to find the most affordable one.
Consider Getting Dental Work at a Dental School
The option of getting dental treatment at a dental school may seem like a comedic plot twist, but it’s a serious consideration for those seeking affordable dental care. Surprisingly, the cost of dental work at a university can be significantly lower than a regular private practice. According to Consumer Reports, you can save 30% to 40% on dental services by choosing a dental school over many private dentists.
Although it sounds intimidating to get work done by students, it’s important to note that they work under the supervision of professional dentists. That means you can receive the same level of quality you would get with any regular provider in your city or state. However, the downside of getting care at a dental school is that it can take a long time to get your procedures done. Since they’re new to this profession, they may work slowly on your teeth until they feel more comfortable down the line. But, if you choose this opportunity, you may take advantage of a cheaper option that can help you maintain your budget.
If you want work done at a school, know that some institutions offer payment plans like a private dentist. Similar to regular dental practices, you must verify the school’s payment plan beforehand to ensure it isn’t costly to your savings. If necessary, you can talk to a representative from the office to see if it’s possible to arrange affordable installments.
Apply for a Loan Online or in Person
Many people use loans to cover a bill or expense that is difficult to afford. If you find yourself struggling to repay a dental procedure, consider this alternative solution to get back on your feet.
However, it’s important to research every loan type before settling on an option. After all, not every loan has your best interest in mind and can leave you in an endless cycle of debt. For example, payday loans are notorious for having short repayment periods that will only last until your next paycheck. Additionally, payday loans have high interest rates and hidden fees that weren’t disclosed on your loan contract. If you choose another loan type, like a personal loan, you may also face high interest rates that are challenging to cover. But, if you have a low credit score, you may not qualify for funding through this loan option.
Fortunately, good credit scores aren’t a requirement for secured loans like a title loan and auto pawn loans. You will simply have to provide your car as collateral in exchange for the money you need. However, failure to repay either loan can result in the lender repossessing the vehicle. So, staying on top of your monthly payments is important to avoid this significant consequence.
If you’re unsure which loan option to choose, you can always consult with a financial expert for advice. They may be able to find the best resource for your situation based on your needs and finances. Just ensure you research different professionals online and read customer testimonials to shape your decision.
Borrow from Your Emergency Fund
Do you have a savings account reserved for emergency expenses? If so, you can use those funds to cover your dental care without any preoccupation! But, ensure you have three to six month’s worth of expenses in your account to cover the bill. If your emergency fund is a little low, it’s best to keep saving money in that account and find an alternative solution to pay for your dental work. However, if you have a significant amount in your savings, you must only use a decent total to cover your procedure. That way, you will have enough money left to repay an unforeseen expense.
Conclusion — Use the Right Approach to Pay for Your Dental Work
As you can see, there are various methods you can use to pay for your dental care. All you have to do is find the best approach that meets your preferences and effectively covers your expenses. However, be aware that other strategies can help you achieve your financial goal. Simply search for different techniques online until you find one that works for you. If needed, you can communicate with a financial advisor to gather ideas on the right course of action to repay your dental visit.
