If the idea of seeing a dentist for a dental emergency causes you to panic, you’re likely worried about the potential costs of treating a cracked, broken, or knocked-out tooth. Many patients worry about the unexpected expenses associated with emergency dentistry and whether their dental insurance will provide any sort of coverage. Fortunately, there is good news. Keep reading to discover how much you can expect to save and why getting the care you need right away is always a more cost-effective option.
Why You Shouldn’t Avoid Emergency Dental Care
The price of any kind of oral healthcare can be alarming, especially if you don’t have dental insurance or worry you may be over your allotted annual maximum. However, failing to receive the necessary treatment will only worsen your symptoms and the amount required to come out of your wallet.
Neglecting emergency dental care can result in a simple problem turning into a bigger, costlier issue down the road. Seeking professional help right away is the most cost-effective way to improve your oral health and avoid more expensive solutions in the future.
What Kind of Coverage Is There for Dental Emergencies?
Most dental insurance plans have benefits for dental emergencies. In fact, depending on your policy, you may receive one free exam if you have sustained any type of oral injury. This is because insurance companies understand that accidents can happen. When they do, you need to see a trusted dentist to keep the problem from becoming worse.
Instead of being concerned about the price of the emergency visit, it’s likely that the main cost will come from the type of restorative care you will need. After conducting a thorough examination, the dentist will determine which method of treatment will be most effective in helping you out of pain and restoring your smile.
If you look at your plan and compare it to others, you may find that most offer somewhere between 50-80% coverage for minor and major restorative treatments, such as dental fillings, dental crowns, root canals, dentures, and even tooth extractions.
Don’t assume your dental emergency will go away just so you can avoid the cost of an urgent visit. Get the help you need so that you not only minimize the damage to your smile but also reduce the amount you’ll be required to improve your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. David Tillman attended Baylor University and received his dental degree from the University of Texas Branch in Houston. Serving two years as a dental missionary in Benin, a West African country, he completed his general dentistry residency at St. Anthony Hospital in Oklahoma City. Since 1993, he has been in private practice in Fort Worth, assisting the residents of his city and surrounding communities. Committed to serving his local and extended community, Dr. Tillman and the other dental professionals and staff offer emergency dentistry when sudden injuries occur. If you or a loved one needs immediate dental assistance, contact us via our website or by calling (817) 870-4746.