Did you know the American Dental Association recommends seeing your dentist twice annually for routine checkups and cleanings? This allows them to monitor your oral health to catch and treat any problems before they progress.
Despite this, only an estimated 52.3% of adults in the United States have seen their provider in the past six months, and over 40% are likely only to schedule a visit when they already have an issue. However, practicing preventive care can save you money in the long run. Continue reading to learn 3 good reasons to schedule your next appointment sooner rather than later!
Reason #1: Prevent Dental Dilemmas
Even if you are dedicated to a twice-daily at-home dental hygiene routine of brushing and flossing, it’s still possible to develop oral issues. For example, a cavity could grow between two teeth or behind your molars, where you can’t see it, or you might have early gum disease and not know because it doesn’t always exhibit visible symptoms until it worsens.
Seeing your dentist consistently helps them address any areas of concern in their earliest stages to avoid more complicated and costly repairs. For example, if they notice thinning enamel, they can provide topical fluoride to strengthen the protective outer layer or apply a sealant or filling to prevent tooth decay. If you wait until your pearly white has cavities or develops an ache, you might require a root canal and a dental crown to preserve your grin, which is more costly and invasive than a basic checkup.
Reason #2: Save On Expenses
Dental insurance is a great way to minimize your dental expenses, though most plans are designed to promote proper preventive care. For example, they tend to cover 100% of routine cleanings and exams but might only include 50% to 80% of the cost of major services like crowns, root canals, or extractions.
That means you can save money by visiting the dentist every six months as recommended. For those without insurance, preventive care still costs less out-of-pocket than more complex treatments. For instance, you might pay anywhere from $75 to $300 for a basic exam, X-rays, and a professional cleaning without a policy, while a root canal and dental crown might range from $1,500 to $3,800 or more.
Reason #3: Address Medical Issues
Would you be surprised to learn that maintaining your dental health can also help manage other medical conditions? For example, people with diabetes or heart disease are at an increased risk of gum disease, and vice versa. That means managing one can help reduce different risks associated with the other.
For example, one study showed that patients with diabetes who attended regular dental appointments saved an average of $549 on annual medical expenses compared to those who didn’t receive routine preventive care. Similarly, those with coronary artery disease saved $548 annually, and people suffering from both conditions saved $866.
About the Practice
At Beck Dental Care of Columbia, you and your family benefit from a team of dentists passionate about helping you build and maintain your happiest, healthiest smiles. Dr. Hart, Dr. Williams, and Dr. Matthews collaborate to provide a complete range of services to people of all ages. They take the time to learn your unique concerns and goals, then tailor treatment plans to meet them. Whether you need a routine checkup and cleaning or a more complex repair, they have the experience and advanced technology to help. You can request an appointment on the website or call (931) 388-8452.