You would do well to see your dentist at least twice a year as part of your dental health practice. If this is something that you are not keen on doing, you are not alone. Perhaps you are concerned about the cost or fearful of the procedure? In most cases, it is because people just do not know enough about what dental care experts have to offer.
What do you need to know about dental care services?
One of the first things that most dental experts want their patients to understand is that there is nothing frightening about what they do which is to help you maintain dental health and well-being.
If you do not take steps to keep your teeth and gums healthy, you might be jeopardising your general health as well. There is a link between oral health and heart, brain and cardiovascular health.
1. Understanding Your Needs:
- Preventative Care: This is the cornerstone of maintaining oral health. Regular cleanings, exams, and fluoride treatments help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other problems.
- Restorative Care: This addresses existing issues like cavities, broken teeth, or missing teeth. Options include fillings, crowns, bridges, or implants.
- Cosmetic Dentistry: Focuses on enhancing the appearance of your smile. Examples include teeth whitening, veneers, or orthodontic treatment like braces.
2. Knowing the Treatments:
- Cleanings and Exams: Regularly removing plaque and tartar protects teeth and gums. Exams detect potential problems early, allowing for timely intervention.
- Fillings: These repair cavities, preventing further damage and pain. Various materials like composite resin or porcelain offer different benefits and aesthetics.
- Crowns: These “caps” protect and strengthen weak or damaged teeth, restoring their function and appearance.
- Bridges: These replace missing teeth by anchoring to adjacent teeth.
- Implants: These artificial tooth roots offer a permanent solution for missing teeth, mimicking natural teeth both in function and look.
- Braces and Aligners: These straighten misaligned teeth, improving bite, appearance, and oral health. Different options cater to various needs and preferences.
- Teeth Whitening: This enhances the shade of your teeth, brightening your smile. Various in-office and home-based methods are available.
- Veneers: These thin covers conceal imperfections like chips, discoloration, or misalignment, creating a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
3. Cost and Insurance:
- Dental care can be expensive, so understanding costs upfront is crucial. Discuss payment options like insurance coverage, financing plans, or discounts with your dentist.
- Dental insurance often covers preventive care and some restorative procedures, but coverage varies significantly. Familiarize yourself with your plan’s details and limitations.
4. Choosing the Right Dentist:
- Credentials and experience are key. Look for a dentist with relevant qualifications and good standing in the community.
- Communication and comfort are important. Choose a dentist you feel comfortable with, who explains procedures clearly and addresses your concerns.
- Read online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends and family.
5. Maintaining Good Oral Hygiene:
- Remember to brush your teeth two times each day and make a habit of daily flossing.
- Use a fluoride toothpaste and mouthwash.
- Eat a healthy diet and limit sugary drinks.
- Schedule regular dental appointments for cleanings and checkups.
By understanding your needs, exploring treatment options, and considering practicalities like cost and insurance, you can make informed decisions about dental care services and achieve optimal oral health and a confident smile.
Remember, your dentist is a partner in your oral health journey. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, express concerns, and work together to develop a personalized care plan that meets your needs and goals.
Now fortunately almost all dental health problems are reversible or better yet, prevented if you only take the time to come in to get your teeth checked on a regular basis. Let dental cavities go on unchecked and eventually it may be too late to do anything about it, and you may face far more complicated dental problems like gum disease (gingivitis) and tooth loss.
Cost of tooth extraction and other common dental procedures
Now that you know a thing or two about what dental care providers can do for you, cost may still be a concern. After all, you would want to know whether you can afford whatever dental treatment you have in mind.
One of the most common procedures done by dentist are tooth extractions and the cost depend on the type of teeth that needs to be removed and complexity. A simple tooth extraction without insurance can cost you around $230. A considerably more complicated wisdom tooth extraction on the other hand can cost you about twice as much ($295 to $400).
Average fees for popular dental procedures:
- Complete oral examination – $60
- dental fees for fillings – $140 to $138 (one surface)
- Fluoride treatment – $36
- Plaque removal – $62
Doubt you can afford to have your teeth professionally treated? Most reputable dentists do not expect you to pay for treatment upfront and you may not even have to. A bulk billing dentist can take your Medicare benefits as full payment for certain dental services rendered. If your treatment is not eligible for insurance as is often the case with cosmetic dental treatments, you can opt for flexible payment plans and financing options that would allow you to spread out payment over a set number of months creating less of a dent on your finances.
Looking to get started with some of the finest and most reputable dental care experts in Australia? You can count on Macquarie Dental for suitable guidance.
