Budgets are tight across America right now, so many people are choosing to cancel their dental appointments, believing that this will help their limited dollars go farther. Unfortunately, not only is skipping out on dental care a bad idea for your health, but it can hurt your bottom line as well. How? Find out why more frequent dental visits are good for your bank account below.

Prevention=Savings

The American Dental Association suggests that everyone receive at least two professional checkups and cleanings each year, but according to their own research, most only attend one. These appointments are designed to do two things—find potential problems early and stop others from occurring in the first place.

Not to mention, preventive treatments like these are much more affordable compared to getting the teeth repaired or replaced. Generally, for every $1 a person spends on preventive dentistry, they save $50 on restorative treatment.

Dental Health is Overall Health

Mountains and mountains of research are pointing to a fact that dentists have known for decades—that oral and overall health are deeply connected. There are a variety of whole-body conditions that can lead to oral symptoms, and the opposite is true as well. Countless studies have shown that those with poor oral health (primarily gum disease) have a much higher risk of suffering from strokes, heart attacks, diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s. As you can imagine, having to deal with any of the diseases just listed is massively expensive, but science shows that by simply going to the dentist regularly, you can drastically lower your chance of developing any of them.

Positive for Mental Health

When a person’s smile doesn’t feel good, they don’t feel good as well. Being constantly in pain because of a toothache or self-conscious because of noticeable flaws can take a real toll on a person. This can lead to strain in personal and professional relationships. But, by maintaining a healthy and attractive smile, a person can face each day with confidence, looking forward to what life will bring rather than dreading it. While dental care certainly shouldn’t be a substitute for therapy for people who need it, having a healthy smile can do wonders for a person’s overall well-being, all while they spend much less compared to visiting a therapist or taking medication.

How to Save on Dental Care

You might be thinking, “This all sounds great, but I simply can’t afford to visit the dentist right now.” Thankfully, you aren’t alone, and many practices are doing their best to make oral healthcare more accessible. In addition to accepting virtually all insurance plans, a lot of dentists have in-house savings plans as well, which cost less than insurance while offering the same level of savings. Low-to-no-interest financing is available almost everywhere, plus a practice might offer a special for new patients so they spend nothing at their first visit.

When it comes to your wallet, your teeth, and your overall well-being, going to the dentist is a smart decision. It will make you feel better now while doing your future self a favor you’ll certainly appreciate.

About the Authors

Dr. Krysten Jackson and Dr. Eric Parsons combine personalized, family-friendly dentistry with the latest technology and techniques. They understand how important affordability is, especially now, which is why El Reno Family Dentistry offers its own in-house savings plan as well as a Free First Visit™ and free second opinions. To learn more about all the ways you can save with us the next time you visit the dentist, contact us today.