Whether it’s mild soreness or severe discomfort, oral pain is usually a warning sign of a much larger dental problem. Unfortunately, many patients put off going to the dentist for as long as possible because they are worried about the cost. However, this can wreak havoc on the look and function of your smile, resulting in further damage. To prevent that from happening, keep reading to learn what you need to know about getting emergency oral care without dental insurance.
What Is Considered a Dental Emergency?
Any abnormal symptoms, from oral pain to unusual swelling, require treatment. However, some issues necessitate more immediate attention, such as:
- A loose or knocked-out permanent tooth
- An injured jaw
- Painful swelling
- Uncontrollable bleeding
- Broken or cracked teeth
- A lost filling, crown, or restoration
If your dental injury has resulted in potentially life-threatening symptoms, like difficulty breathing, then call 911 or head to the nearest ER. Otherwise, you should get in touch with your dentist’s office right away.
What Will Happen If You Don’t Seek Treatment?
All too often, patients don’t seek treatment because they believe they are saving money by not visiting the dentist. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, every $1 invested in preventive care can save you $8-$50 in restorative and cosmetic care down the line. So, imagine how much you’d save by getting treatment when the first signs of a dental injury arise!
How to Make Urgent Dental Care Affordable
Dental insurance is designed to make preventive and restorative care more affordable, but it’s by no means the only option. To start, flexible financing through third-party financiers (like CareCredit) is available. With low-to-no interest, this option allows you to break up the cost of even the most extensive treatment plans into your monthly budget.
In-office dental plans are also an option, which works similarly to dental insurance but doesn’t involve annual maximums and deductibles. Simply put, being uninsured doesn’t mean paying for your dental care will break the bank.
If you’re struggling with a dental injury, don’t wait any longer to get the fast, effective treatment you need. Get in touch with your dentist and find out which financial options are available so you can enjoy a pain-free smile again!
About the Author
Dr. Dhavalkumar Rana earned his dental doctorate from New York University. He is a member of the American Dental Association. Dr. Rana gained a lot of firsthand dental experience through regular childhood visits to the dentist’s office at his grandfather’s side, who struggled with oral health problems. If you ever need emergency dental care, he offers same-day appointments, CareCredit financing, and a $19 Limited Emergency Exam that includes your consultation and X-rays. Schedule an appointment on his website, but if it’s an emergency, call (469) 399-7288.