Is Going To The Dentist An Option?

As people struggle to save money, many are opting not to go to the dentist as they claim they can’t afford it and worry that the costs will be too high as they haven’t been for some time. Is there a better way to cover dental costs though, rather than opting out of going to the dentist altogether?

According to the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) people should not leave longer than 24 months between dentist appointments.

However, the latest Annual Dental Survey by Simplyhealth shows that of those adults who have ever been to the dentist, 20% haven’t been in the last 18 months or more.

James Glover, spokesperson for Simplyhealth commented: “Concerns over the cost of dental treatment are apparent. With 22% of those people that have visited the dentist receiving bills of over £300, and 44% of these paying for the treatment by credit card, it is vital that individuals plan how to cover these costs.

“Dental plans and cash plans are a great way of helping individuals and families to spread the cost of visiting the dentist, ensuring dental care is affordable even when finances don’t allow.

“During difficult financial times when every expenditure is scrutinised, perceived value for money for individuals is essential. Our survey shows that this is not always the case with dentistry, as only half (54%) believe that visiting the dentist is very good or fairly good value for money.

“This lack of value, in addition to an increasing number of other financial constraints may also be having a negative effect on the nation’s dental health.”

Dentist appointments can be used to deal with current problems but also to help dental problems occurring in the future.

As Michael Thomas, practising dentist and Simplyhealth’s Dental Advisor says: “Simplyhealth’s survey results suggest that people aren’t utilising their appointments to the full extent they could.

“36% of people would not consider consulting their dentist on stopping smoking, dental education for children, mouth cancer concerns, diet changes, removal of wisdom teeth, botox and facial fillers or tooth implants. By using your time with your dentist to talk about things like stopping smoking, the removal of wisdom teeth and childhood dental health you are more likely to feel that you are receiving good value for money.”

MoneyHighStreet comments: “Not going to the dentist is really not an option in our opinion. There are a number of ways to cover your dental costs, including taking out dental insurance or a dental plan.

“Dental insurance is easily the most flexible option for someone who needs regular and – sometimes – specialist dental work.

“A dental plan tends to be cheaper than dental insurance, but they have more restrictions on what dental costs they will cover – and sometimes on the dentist you can use.

“Of course, the best way to avoid expensive dental costs is to look after your teeth!”