The beginning of the year can be a pretty hectic time. If you’re like the average American, you’re still recovering from the holiday season, only to have to launch into another 12-month cycle. In the midst of tying up any loose ends, you’re reminded of the importance of protecting your teeth and gums. The first place to start is with scheduling a dental checkup. To find out why it’s so important to do so early in the year, continue reading!
A Way to Tackle Your Deductible
Most dental insurance plans renew coverage at the start of the year. That means you’re responsible for a new deductible, which is around $50 for most plans. With the typical preventive visit ranging from $200 to $300, you can easily meet your deductible when you visit for a checkup and cleaning. From a financial standpoint, it amounts to one less thing you’ll have to worry about in a year that will already be full of enough deadlines and obligations.
The Path to Early Detection
Over 60% of dental emergencies could have been prevented. How, may you ask? It’s through early detection and treatment.
Let’s take the average root canal procedure. It’s usually required because oral bacteria and plaque have been allowed to spread to the sensitive inner parts of the tooth, where the pulp and nerves are housed. At this point, a filling won’t suffice.
In most cases, the decay that requires root canal therapy started as a simple cavity. For the record, it’s much easier to treat minor tooth decay than to allow it to get worse.
Big Savings
The more involved a dental procedure is, the greater your out-of-pocket cost will be. Thus, starting your year with a visit to have your dental health assessed could yield huge savings down the road. What’s even better is that with the typical dental insurance plan, two preventive care visits are 100% covered (after the deductible is met) per year.
Relationship Formation
When you find the right dentist, you’re entering a long-term union. And all lasting relationships are built on trust. By getting in to visit a new dentist early in the year, it’s a way to get acquainted and calm any apprehension you may have about receiving dental care. You’ll be able to share any issues you may be having, so you can get the solutions you need.
Additionally, these visits allow you to inquire about any other services you may be interested in. For example, if you have a smile flaw that you’d like improved, this will be the perfect time to ask about the treatment options.
When it’s all said and done, you just can’t go wrong visiting your local dentist in the month of January. Your teeth and gums will thank you!
About the Author
Dr. Christine DiBlasi Laster is a graduate of the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill School of Dentistry. She takes a careful approach to providing care to ensure that each of her patients’ varied needs are met. Dr. Laster provides top-notch preventive and comprehensive dentistry at her private practice. She can be reached for more information or to schedule a visit through her website.
