Reviewed by Dr. Jason Fluckiger, DMD

We all know that taking care of our teeth is important. But what happens when we have bad teeth and limited finances? We may be tempted to put off treatment, hoping the issue will resolve itself. However, this can lead to more expensive and complicated problems down the line.

In this blog, we explain options for affordable dental care and why you shouldn’t put off dealing with oral health concerns. 

Table of Contents

Understanding the True Cost of Dental Neglect

Delaying dental treatment might seem like saving money initially, but it often results in more extensive—and expensive—dental procedures later on. Untreated dental issues, such as tooth decay or gum disease, can escalate into bigger problems that require more extensive procedures and cost more money.

Consider this scenario: You have a toothache, but you delay going to the dentist because you are afraid it will cost too much. The toothache persists and worsens to a point where you can’t handle the pain and are forced to see a dentist. 

The initial problem of a simple cavity has progressed to the point where you now need a root canal or even a tooth extraction, which are much more costly procedures.

You might be thinking that losing a tooth isn’t a big deal, but did you know that it can lead to other complications? Missing teeth can affect your jawbone and cause shifting of adjacent teeth, leading to misalignment and bite issues. It can also impact your ability to chew and speak properly, affecting your overall quality of life.

So what can you do if you have bad teeth and no money or dental coverage? Let’s explore some options.

Prevention is Key

The best way to avoid the high cost of dental procedures is by taking care of your teeth and practicing good oral hygiene. 

This includes regular brushing, flossing, and routine visits to the dentist for cleanings and check-ups. While it may seem like an added expense, it can save you money in the long run by preventing more serious and costly issues.

If you have children, it’s important to instill good oral hygiene habits in them from a young age. This can help prevent future dental problems and expenses.

Affordable Dental Care

If you are struggling to afford dental care, there are some programs and options available to help.

  • Dental schools: Many dental schools offer discounted rates for preventive care and basic procedures, as they allow students to practice under the supervision of experienced dentists. However, complex cases may not be accepted or may have limited availability.
  • Community clinics: These clinics also offer affordable dental care, but their services may be limited to preventative and basic procedures. They may not have specialized oral surgery available.
  • Government programs: Medicaid/CHIP can provide coverage for certain dental procedures, but there are limitations and restrictions on what is covered.

If you need a more complex procedure such as oral surgery, these options may not be feasible.

Is Dental Insurance the Answer?

Dental insurance can be a helpful tool in managing the cost of dental procedures, but it’s important to understand its limitations.

  • Types of dental insurance: There are two main types of insurance—HMO and PPO. HMO plans have lower premiums but require you to see an in-network dentist, whereas PPO plans allow for more flexibility but come with higher premiums.
  • Coverage limitations and waiting periods: Most dental insurance plans have waiting periods before they will cover major procedures like oral surgery. Additionally, there may be annual or lifetime coverage limits.

So while dental insurance can help mitigate some financial burden, it’s important to do a cost-benefit analysis to see if it’s worth the investment.

Finding the Right Dental Plan

If you do decide to get dental insurance, here are some tips for choosing the right plan:

  • Consider your specific dental needs and budget: If you don’t anticipate needing major procedures, a lower coverage plan may suffice. If you have ongoing dental issues, a higher coverage plan would be more beneficial.
  • Research and compare plans: Look at different insurance providers and their plans to find the best fit for you.
  • Read the fine print: Make sure you understand what is covered by your plan and any limitations or restrictions.

However, even with insurance, there may still be out-of-pocket expenses. This is where in-house or third-party financing can help.

Financing and Payment Options

Most dental professionals offer some form of financing or payment plans to help make treatment more affordable. The most common options include:

  • In-house financing: This allows you to make payments directly to the dental office over a set period of time.
  • Dental credit cards: These are specifically designed for dental expenses and often offer interest-free financing or rewards for dental treatments.
  • Third-party financing: Companies like CareCredit and LendingClub offer loans specifically for medical and dental procedures. They typically have low-interest rates and flexible payment plans.

It’s important to discuss these options with your dental professional before proceeding with treatment. They can help guide you towards the best solution for your financial situation.

The Bottom Line

Having bad teeth and limited finances can be a challenging situation, but it’s important to prioritize your oral health. Ignoring dental issues can lead to more extensive—and expensive—problems down the line.

By exploring affordable options such as dental schools, community clinics, and government programs, or considering dental insurance and financing options, you can find a solution that works for you. Remember, investing in your oral health now can save you time, money, and discomfort in the long run.

At AZ Max Oral Surgery, our board-certified oral surgeons are extensively trained in complex procedures, ensuring the highest level of care and expertise. With many years of experience in oral surgery, they have honed their skills to not only perform intricate surgeries effectively but also to optimize patient outcomes

This expertise means fewer complications and faster recovery times, which translates to less money spent overall by minimizing the need for additional treatments or prolonged healthcare services.

If you are searching for an oral surgeon in Mesa, North Mesa, Queen Creek, Tempe or Show Low, call or text AZ Max Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons at (480) 830-5866 or complete the online request form.