Hindsight, as they say, is 20/20. Typically, people with extensive dental needs understand how they ended up there. Like many, ‘preventive dentistry‘ (regular care that helps people avoid problems from occurring) is set aside because it seems less urgent than others.
Because dental problems often begin without obvious symptoms, the need for going to the dentist pales in comparison when budgets are already stretched. A vehicle always seems to need a repair or the refrigerator needs replacing – these tend to take precedence when it comes to urgency – until something hurts.
Although dental visits for check ups and cleanings seems optional when nothing is obviously wrong, these delays in care tend to catch up to the procrastinating patient in expensive ways. Like ignoring the upkeep of an automobile, the cost for repairs in the future will likely cost much more than regular maintenance may have prevented.
Yet, when an individual comes to us with a mouthful of tremendous needs – decay, missing teeth, gum disease, etc. – our goal is to help them focus on their future smile rather than the path that led them to their treatment needs. We pride ourselves on never making a patient feel guilty for delaying or avoiding care (especially for those who struggle with dental fear). You’ll never get a lecture here.
When money concerns are the obstacle that prevent a person from enjoying a healthy smile, how can they manage the fees needed to overcome extensive dental repairs and replacing missing teeth?
A smile should be as mandatory in our upkeep commitments as any other part of our bodies. Its role in our health and overall well-being is important, maybe moreso than it is given.
Of course, having an appealing smile is an important part of facial appearance. A beautiful smile also boosts our self-esteem, self-confidence, and even our mood. When people feel good about their smile, they smile more often. Research has shown that the act of smiling causes a release of endorphins in the brain. These are our ‘happy’ chemicals that give us a ‘natural high’.
Being able to bite and chew comfortably is necessary for proper digestion. When teeth or gums hurt or teeth are loose or missing, chewing thoroughly becomes difficult. Rather than hurt, people may switch to soft foods that require minimal chewing. Unfortunately, these are often carb heavy with little nutritional value, lacking in fiber and protein.
The health of your smile also plays a role in your overall health. Research has shown a correlation between periodontal (gum) disease and heart disease, stroke, some cancers, diabetes, arthritis and preterm babies. Research is also following links to Alzheimer’s disease. That’s potent bacteria!
I’ve been a dentist in Shelby Township MI for nearly 25 years. Throughout this time, I have seen hundreds of patients go from having a “bombed out mouth” to having exceptional oral health and beautiful smiles they now love to share often. These are not wealthy people. Like most Macomb Country residents, these include teachers, first responders, and blue and white collar workers in many professions.
Here in our complete care dental office, we know that every person can achieve a smile that is a benefit to their overall health. Regardless of one’s financial position, there is always a way to move forward to a smile that will enhance each life in many ways.
For example, we offer two extended payment plans to our array of financing options. These include CareCredit and Lending Club Patient Solutions. Both options finance most dental treatments with no down payment required. These are interest-free with very low interest rates. There are no prepayment penalties and monthly payments can be paced at practical durations for most budgets.
To check out payment options prior to your consult, visit our web site’s Financial Options page: https://www.banrbarbatdds.com/financial-options/
We also accept all major credit cards and offer a prepayment discount for many treatments. For those who wish to combine dental insurance with fees not covered, our Financial Coordinator, Deb, is your best resource. For over 20 years, Deb has successfully helped patients arrange payment plans for a variety of treatment plans, both big and small. Her goal is to help you accomplish your best smile at a level that is affordable and practical.
Please remember – when there is a problem in your mouth, you can expect it to worsen without treatment. Cavities don’t just go away. Gum disease won’t stop or get better. Don’t allow delayed dentistry to cost you MORE in treatment time and expense. Call 586-739-2155 to arrange a free consultation and let us help you reach your smile goals. Or, click here to schedule a consultation.
