Stains that won’t go away, small yet eye-catching cracks, and noticeable spaces between teeth are just a few examples of cosmetic imperfections that you might notice on your smile. If you’re tired of being embarrassed about your grin, you may be considering cosmetic dentistry. But there’s one troublesome question that’s likely on your mind: can you afford it? Here’s what you need to know about making improvements to your teeth while being mindful of your budget.
Can Dental Insurance Help?
Your first thought might be that you can use dental insurance to lower your out-of-pocket costs for your treatment. However, this likely will not be an option if you’re having dental work done for purely cosmetic reasons. Most dental insurance plans do not offer coverage for services that your smile does not actually need to stay healthy.
Sometimes there are exceptions if a treatment that improves the appearance of your teeth also has restorative benefits. For example, a tooth-colored crown is likely to be partially covered by dental insurance if it’s being used to repair and protect a broken tooth. But if a more aesthetically pleasing grin is your only goal, you’ll probably need to consider other options.
So What are Some Ways to Make Cosmetic Dentistry More Affordable?
Even without the help of dental insurance, cosmetic dentistry can be more accessible than you might think. Here are just a few ways to make the services you need more affordable:
- In-House Savings Plan: At many dental practices, you can sign up for an in-house savings plan in order to receive discounts on many different treatments – which often includes those that would not be covered by insurance. Furthermore, an in-house savings plan won’t come with hassles like deductibles and paperwork for claims.
- Financing: Trying to pay the total cost of a smile makeover all at once can be overwhelming, but financing can make things much easier. This option lets you pay in monthly installments, which is often good news when you have a budget to worry about. At many dental practices, you can apply for financing through CareCredit.
- Grants: You may be able to apply for a dental grant that partially or completely covers the cost of your treatment. The Cosmetic Dentistry Grants Program offers grants to help pay for common cosmetic procedures such as veneers. They can also aid with more extensive treatments like the placement of dental implants.
It’s natural to be worried about the financial aspect of cosmetic dentistry, but there are ways you can pay for the services you want while also taking care of your bank account. Reach out to your dental practice to learn more about the available financial options.
About the Author
Dr. Joseph E. Hickey was born in South Bend. He earned his dental doctorate at the Indiana University School of Dentistry. He has completed Heartland Dental’s Aesthetic Continuum, and as such he is an expert in enhancing smiles with veneers. His practice, Granger Dental Group, offers a convenient in-house savings plan as well as flexible CareCredit financing. To set up a consultation with Dr. Hickey, visit his website or call (574) 277-4235.