A lot of people don’t prioritize scheduling regular dental checkups. After all, why spend time and money on teeth cleanings when you already brush and floss every day at home? It may not seem like it at first, but visiting your dentist in Center twice a year is crucial. Although you might think of it as a way of saving yourself from hefty dental bills, avoiding these appointments will cost you much more in the long term. Here are four ways that routine checkups and cleanings can save you money.
Diagnose Gum Disease Early
Even though gum disease is largely preventable, about half of Americans over the age of 30 have it to some degree. Your dentist will look for early signs of it at your checkup so it can be addressed before it wreaks havoc on your smile. Left untreated, gum disease can eventually weaken your jawbone, causing loose teeth and even tooth loss. By not allowing your dentist to catch gum disease early, you’d have to spend more money on treatment that may not be covered by your dental insurance.
Tackle Cavities Right Away
A small cavity that you might not have noticed can be spotted at your checkup and treated with a small filling, which is usually covered by insurance. If you don’t get a filling, though, the cavity will only get bigger. You may end up needing a more extensive treatment, such as a dental crown, root canal, or even a tooth extraction. These procedures are much less likely to be covered by dental insurance than fillings.
Detect Oral Cancer
In addition to checking your mouth for cavities and gum disease, your dentist also examines your oral tissues for any abnormalities that may indicate cancer. Because oral cancer often progresses quickly, detecting it early can mean the difference between a fairly simple treatment and intensive chemotherapy. These regular screenings can save not just money, but your life!
Prevent Tooth Discoloration
Stained teeth may not be fatal, but they can seriously hinder your self-confidence. After your checkup, a dental hygienist cleans your teeth with a prophylaxis paste. This gritty substance breaks apart surface stains, leaving your smile shining bright. Regular polishing can help you avoid the need for pricey teeth whitening treatments. Because they’re considered elective procedures, they’re almost never covered by insurance.
Visiting your dentist in Center every six months can keep your smile healthy and net you some serious savings in the long run. If you’re worried about the costs of getting the preventive care you need, ask your dentist about their financing options. They should be more than happy to come up with a custom payment plan that helps you maintain lasting oral health!
About the Practice
At Family Dental Center of East Texas, we have a children’s dentist as well as a family dentist who both prioritize preventive care. Dr. Thomas Youngblood and Dr. Mireya Martinez are both active members of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. Our practice accepts the vast majority of dental insurance plans. For our uninsured patients, we also offer flexible, low-to-no interest financing through third-party companies like CareCredit. To learn more about the importance of regular dental visits, contact us at (936) 427-9070.