I’m no dentist but not going to see your dentist every six months is just plain dumb. As part of my health benefit at work, I receive dental coverage as well. It allows me and my wife to go see our dentist and receive cleaning every 6 months without requiring any additional payment. It’s the easiest way to have my teeth taken care of, aside from regular brushing and flossing.
But I still know a few people who have not seen their dentist in years! I would understand and be more sympathetic if they didn’t have dental insurance (my dentist charges $100 for cleaning), but these people HAVE dental insurance AND don’t bother going. I can’t think of any other excuse except simply laziness.
What happens if you don’t go see your dentist regularly?
- You could have a cavity and not know it. It’s a lot easier to treat a small cavity and than big cavity. Drilling more into the tooth probably is not as good as drilling less. The sooner the cavity is detected, the easier it would be to patch it up.
- You could have gum disease like gingivitis and not know it. Gingivitis if left untreated can lead to periodontal disease, which can lesions, which can lead to tooth loss. Early detection from regular checkups can prevent advanced stages can save your tooth.
- You could have oral cancer and not know it. Do you know how to check for oral cancer? I surely don’t. But your dentist does. During the routine checkup, your dentist is also screening you for oral cancer.
By avoiding major teeth related procedures, you can save a lot of money by taking care of your teeth and receiving regular checkups every 6 months.
When was the last time you’ve seen your dentist?
This is the latest edition of our new series called MoneyFail.
photo: Dental Flossing, Walter Siegmund
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The last time I saw the dentist was a few months ago back when I had dental insurance. Now that I don’t have it, I’ve considered stretching my cleanings to once a year. I even went to the ADHA website to revisit how to properly care for my teeth and gums. I should know how, but the last time I remember having the subject taught to me was in like the second grade. It doesn’t hurt to brush up (no pun intended) on the right technique.
Shawanda @ You Have More Than You Think recently posted..Menu Plan Money ~ Jan 30, 2012 – “Foodie Financial Challenge” Edition
Your timing is interesting, I will be at the dentist tomorrow for a routine cleaning. I go to the dentist routinely. I am at a stage in my life where they are replacing fillings that are 40-50 years old.
krantcents recently posted..The 3 C’s of Success
I saw my dentist couple of months ago; and yes we all go to see him every six months. Love my dentist but dislike what he does. Go figure!
I have dental insurance and I make sure my family gets 6 months check up without fail. There even is no copay so it costs me nothing on the routine check up.
UltimateSmartMoney recently posted..Invest in Large Cap Stocks as Long-Term Investment
I went last week for my cleaning. I am expecting and pregnant women are at greater risk for gum disease…I got a solid B in my oral care according to my hygienist. I am going to work to obtain an A next time.
Super Frugalette recently posted..We have 1.2 cars…how many cars do you have?
I’m getting my braces off in two weeks. I need to schedule C and myself to go in for cleanings. No point in straightening the teeth if I’m not going to keep them in good shape otherwise.
shanendoah@The Dog Ate My Wallet recently posted..The Cult of the Dream Job
I’m amazed at how many of my co-workers don’t go to the dentist regularly even though they have insurance coverage.
I unfortunately go 4 x a year for cleanings.
Kay Lynn @ Bucksome Boomer recently posted..Move Up That Corporate Ladder
You should be thanking said people with insurance and not using it. Every premium paid and not used lowers your premium.
Shaun @ Smart Family Finance recently posted..Comment on How We Taught Our Daughter about Saving: Top Family Finance Posts #4 by Shaun
I’m more concerned with the health of my co-workers than a savings to me.
Kay Lynn @ Bucksome Boomer recently posted..Move Up That Corporate Ladder
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