Dental work can be expensive depending on the type of work you need to have done and whether or not you have dental insurance. If you need to have dental work performed and you don't have dental insurance, there are a few options you can use to make your care more affordable. Here are some of the options you can look for as you search for a dentist.

Financing On Approved Credit

In some cases, you may be able to finance your dental work in much the same way you would finance any other large-ticket purchase. Some dentists offer financing options that include monthly payments paid directly to the practice, while others will connect you with a financing company that specializes in credit for dental work. Typically, you have to have your credit history checked to see if you qualify for this option. If you are not approved, consider asking the dentist whether he or she offers sliding scale fees for services.

Dental Discount Plans

Dental discount plans are similar to dental insurance, with a few key differences. You pay a monthly fee every month as you would with dental insurance, but the fees are typically more affordable. This is because you are paying for access to a discount on your dental work instead of actual insurance coverage. The amount you are billed is the discounted rate the plan negotiates with the dentists. Unlike dental insurance, dental discount plans do not require you to fill out claim forms. If the cost of your dental work is still not affordable after the discount, ask your dentist about any possible payment arrangements you can make to cover the expense.

Dental Clinics

Dental clinics run by local colleges and universities sometimes offer reduced prices for dental care depending on the school or the work you need to have performed. Your procedures are performed by a dental college student under the supervision of a licensed dentist. In exchange for the hands-on training the dental student receives, you get a reduced fee for the dental work. In some cases, the faculty at the school may perform the work while demonstrating different techniques to students.

If you don't have a dentist and you aren't sure which options are available in your area, you can ask your primary care physician for assistance. He or she may be able to refer you to local dental clinics or dentists who offer sliding scale fees for work. If you don't already have a dental discount plan, consider enrolling in one before you schedule your dentist's appointment so you can get a better price on your dental work.

For a dentist in your area, contact a dentist such as Scott W. Murphy, D.M.D., P.A.

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