I’m looking for an affordable dentist, but one who actually does a good job. The ones I’ve looked up with affordable prices have not had good reviews. I need a lot of work and can’t just afford to put out a ton of money. I am hoping to find a decent one, but who doesn’t cost a fortune.
Lily
Dear Lily,
There is a big difference between affordable dentists and cheap dentists. Cheap dentists, those who’s prices are lower than most market rates, are usually that way for one of two reasons:
- They aren’t good dentists. They can’t retain patients so use low prices to constantly bring in new ones.
- They cut corners by using lower quality materials to keep prices down without hurting profits too much.
Neither of these are scenarios you’d want for your own oral health care.
Finding Quality Affordable Dental Care
Price isn’t nearly as important as the quality of the work being done. If you had a dental crown which cost $300 and another which cost $700, you’d think the $300 crown would be more affordable. But, what if that crown only lasts three years and the more “expensive” crown is so well made it lasts twenty years. Which would you consider more affordable now?
What you want is a dentist who does quality work but is willing to do two things to help with cost:
First, they’ll do something called phased treatment. This allows you to get your treatment done i stages, instead of all the work needed at once. He or she can list for you which work is most urgent and work out a plan that allows you to get the work done within a budget.
Second, they offer payment plans. They can do this in-house or through a group called care credit. This is a medical credit card which offers low and 0% interest rates, with no penalty for early pay off.
Make sure whoever you use, you check their reviews. This should help you get an idea of the experience actual patients have had with his work. Though, you have already learned this trick.
What you don’t want to do is put off the most urgent treatment. Then, you’ll end up needing an emergency dentist.
This blog is brought to you by Kentucky Dentist Dr. John Weaver.