Reducing the Cost of Cosmetics: 3 Tips for Enhancing Smiles on a Budget

Are you frustrated by aesthetic flaws in your teeth, like chips, cracks, stubborn stains, or mild misalignments? Thankfully, many dentists offer various cosmetic procedures, such as veneers, dental bonding, or teeth whitening, to improve your appearance and boost your confidence.

But you might avoid scheduling a consultation with your provider if you’re worried about the associated costs. If you’re on a tight budget and are looking for ways to upgrade your grin without breaking the bank, continue reading to learn more about 3 tips that might help you achieve your goals!

Tip #1: Check Your Insurance Policy

Insurance can often be a simple and effective way to reduce out-of-pocket dental costs, but many policies don’t cover treatments that are intended to improve your looks more than your oral health, including cosmetic procedures. However, every plan is unique, and there may be exceptions, so it’s worth verifying your details to better understand your benefits. For example, some services, like veneers or dental crowns, might be covered if they’re deemed medically necessary to protect your teeth.

Not only that, but there’s a chance that different aspects of your appointment, like your exam or any necessary imaging, might be covered, which can potentially help reduce your final invoice.

Tip #2: Research Local Dental Clinics

If you’re uninsured or your policy doesn’t include any aspect of cosmetic services, don’t lose hope! You can look into local public dental clinics or charities that offer services for those who qualify. For example, Smiles Change Lives is an organization that offers financial assistance to youths needing braces to improve their appearance and oral health, while Dental Lifeline Network is a non-profit that supports the elderly, disabled, and medically needy with affording dental care.

You might also have some luck seeking care from a government-funded dental school in your area. These institutions often offer learning programs that allow students to perform procedures at a discounted rate under appropriate supervision from a licensed professional.

Tip #3: Ask About Flexible Financing

Don’t forget that many general dentists also offer solutions to help make their services more accessible. For instance, you can ask your provider whether they offer flexible payment packages.

Many offices partner with third-party vendors, such as CareCredit, to offer low-to-no-interest plans that allow approved patients to divide their total invoice into more manageable installments over a designated period. This can help you afford everything from preventive services to cosmetic procedures not usually covered by traditional insurance.

If you’re considering cosmetic services but are unsure whether you can pay for them, you can learn more about potential costs and payment options by consulting your dentist directly!

About the Practice

Patients at Dental Expressions benefit from a husband-and-wife team who are passionate about helping them build and maintain the happiest, healthiest versions of their smiles. Drs. Robert (Bob) and Heather Heil share decades of combined experience and collaborate to provide a complete menu of services, including cosmetics, to people of all ages. They are considered in-network with Delta Dental Premier insurance and happily accept flexible payment plans through CareCredit so you can more easily afford your desired services. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (920) 788-6280.