How Preventative Dentistry Can Save Money in the Long Run

On its surface, preventative dentistry can appear to be fairly expensive. After all, who has hundreds of dollars to spend on procedures that aren’t entirely necessary?

While this line of thinking has logic behind it, in truth, it’s skewed. Why? Because, while preventative dentistry can be expensive, it could go on to save you a lot more money in the long-run.

Wondering how? We’re going to get into it below.

Prevents Small Cavities from Becoming Big Cavities

Cavities form due to tooth decay. They begin small and then grow larger over time. That is unless you have them repaired early in their existence. If repaired early, the decay of a cavity will cease to spread.

But if you want to detect cavities early in their existence, you need to see a dentist. Dentists can detect small cavities with the use of x-rays and other imaging techniques. Then, they can make small repairs to those cavities before they’ve become big cavities.

The longer you wait, the bigger the repair will be, and the more money you’ll have to pay. Pay a small amount of money now so that you don’t have to pay a large amount of money in the future.

Prevents Gingivitis from Turning Into Periodontal Disease

Gingivitis is a minor decaying of the gums. Periodontal disease is a major decaying of the gums. The former can be fixed with regular brushing and flossing. The latter can require expensive repairs, including everything from gum grafting to gum pocket reduction and more.

Want to catch gingivitis before it turns into periodontal disease? Schedule dental appointments twice yearly. If you don’t, the problem could escalate undetected, subjecting you to poor oral health and hefty dental bills.

Catches Oral Cancer Early in Its Existence

Dentists don’t just notice the teeth and the gums. They can detect oral cancer as well. And the earlier oral cancer is detected, the higher chance there is of survival.

But that doesn’t even take into account the money factor. Treating cancer early in its existence is much less expensive than treating cancer later in its existence. So, your quick preventative dental check could save not only your life but thousands of dollars in medical bills as well.

Stops Cracks and Chips from Leading to Dead Teeth

When a tooth becomes chipped or cracked, its blood supply has the potential to become destroyed. If this occurs, the tooth can “die,” losing its white and pristine appearance. At that point, there are two options: 1. leave it in place, or 2. replace it with an implant.

But if you see your dentist regularly, he or she can detect the crack, and repair it with a crown or an inlay. Crowns and inlays are cheaper than implants and will, therefore, save you money.

Preventative Dentistry Can Make a World of Difference

Not only does preventative dentistry help to save you money in the long-run, but it also helps to maintain your oral health. As such, it should be prioritized. See your dentist twice yearly and you should be good to go.

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