No Dental Insurance? No Problem! Here's What to Do
It’s pretty expensive to get dental care with no dental insurance. And one-third of adult Americans do not have dental insurance. But you can’t always wait till you’re at your wit’s end before seeing a dentist.
Thankfully, there are several ways to get dental care at low prices. Discover what to do if you don’t have dental insurance.
6 Options to Consider If You Have No Dental Insurance
A basic cleaning procedure and exam at the dentist's office may cost $200 or more. And while filling cavities can cost hundreds of dollars, braces and dentures can cost thousands.
Luckily, getting free or affordable dental treatment is possible if you know where to look.
1. Get a Dental Discount Plan
Subscribing to a dental discount plan like Carefree Dental helps you save significantly on dental treatments. For a monthly fee, you’re part of a membership, so when you get your treatment at a participating provider, you immediately qualify for a discount.
You can save 15 - 50% per visit in most instances off dental care in exchange for a small monthly charge. How much the discount is depends on each individual dentist, and it’s available fordental treatments, including dentures, braces, and teeth whitening.
For individuals, a dental discount plan costs just $15.95 monthly. And if you want dental discounts for your family, it’s only $4 more at $19.95 per month.
After signing up, you’ll get a membership card you can present at a participating dentist’s to get instant savings on your dental care bills.
Note that dental discount plans are different from dental insurance programs.
2. Visit Dental Schools
Dental schools require students to gain practical experience before graduating. So, these institutions have clinics where students provide low-cost dental care to the public. Compared to other dentists, you may pay half or even less for root canals, fillings, and other services.
There’s no need to feel uneasy about visiting a dental school for treatment. They have tight regulations and well-defined procedures in place. And licensed academics supervise students through every dental procedure. They also offer advice and intervene as necessary.
3. Look for Charity or Faith-Based Dental Clinics
Churches or faith-based organizations run charitable dental clinics in many cities. Dentists at these establishments give their time to treat patients free of charge.
Many dental societies also hold charity events. At these events, dentists can collaborate to treat hundreds of patients throughout a single weekend.
4. Government Assistance Programs
If you qualify for Medicaid, you may receive dental care to an extent. Only individuals below 21 are eligible for more comprehensive dental coverage. Those above 21 can only receive emergency dental care.
Children up to age 19 without insurance can have medical coverage and some dental services through the CHIP program. Note that each state offers different levels of dental treatments. So, check to see what applies in your state.
5. Payment Plans
Some dentists offer their uninsured clients dental payment plans. Most options are no-fee financing, meaning they don’t come with additional interest. So, you can finance aesthetic or restorative dental procedures with dental payment plans at no extra cost.
6. Public Dental Clinics
Public dentistry clinics run by non-profit organizations, state or local health departments, or both are available in some places. These public dental clinics offer primary and urgent dental care.
You can receive some treatment for free, depending on your financial situation. These clinics typically charge according to your financial capacity on a sliding basis.
7. Taking Out a Loan or Credit
While taking out a loan should always be the last resort, ultimately, the health of your teeth is far more valuable than anything else.
Depending on your credit score, you can find a loan that suits your needs. Even if you have bad credit.
Tips to Avoid Dental Costs If You Have No Insurance
Instead of worrying about getting your dental care covered, you can avoid major dental costs and extra trips to the dentist by following some of the tips below.
- Prioritize preventive care: Taking good care of your oral health will help you save time and money. Regular brushing and flossing are the most effective way to prevent dental issues. Avoiding harmful habits to protect the health of your teeth.
- Visit the dentist twice a year: Avoiding the dentist's chair altogether is one surefire strategy to save money if you don't have dental insurance. But, you should get examined by a dentist regularly to check for oral cancer and gum disease, or tooth decay, even if you brush and floss often. Plus, getting dental cleanings twice a year can also prevent many problems.
- Negotiate the costs: If you have questions about the price of your dental care, speak with your dentist. Your dentist may have advice that can help you avoid paying huge fees. They can also recommend more affordable alternatives if there are any.
Get a Carefree Dental Card Today!
You can save money on dental visits with the Carefree Dental Card. And given that a dentist visit can easily cost you hundreds if not thousands of dollars, the Carefree Dental Card is an incredible deal.
Sign up today without insurance, and enjoy savings on your visits to the dentist.
*Actual costs and savings vary by provider, service, and geographical area
The Carefree Dental blog is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The text and pictures within the content are intended for information purposes only. Readers should consult with a licensed dentist or healthcare professional before seeking treatment.
The Carefree Dental Card is not insurance, and Carefree Dental is not an insurance provider.
