The Cost-Saving Benefits of Preventative Treatments

Americans spent a total of $124 billion on dental care in 2017, according to the American Dental Association. A large portion of that total went toward costly restorative treatments that could have been avoided with good oral hygiene habits and regular dental cleanings and exams. In other words, if you think dentistry is expensive you should see how much neglect can cost!

Preventive dentistry reduces your risk of developing gum disease, cavities, and other oral health problems. Even when dental problems are found, early detection can mean far less invasive (and less expensive) treatments are needed. If you have not been to our Camden Maine office for a cleaning or exam in several months, or if you have been putting off addressing an aching tooth, we welcome you to schedule your next visit online or by calling (207) 236-4740.

Why Is Preventive Treatment So Important?

Preventative treatments save you money, time, and discomfort. Regular visits to our dental office for exams and cleanings allow Dr. Norman Medina to use minimally invasive treatments. Screening and exams can detect disease and conditions like TMJ disorder before they become harder to treat or cause irreversible damage to your teeth and gums.

Let’s look at a few preventative treatments as examples.

Dental Cleanings and Exams

Untreated gum disease eventually leads to gum tissue recession and loss of jawbone density. By undergoing routine cleanings, Dr. Medina or one of our skilled staff members can remove tartar buildup before it contributes to gum disease. Periodontal disease is a leading cause of tooth loss in the United States. If your tooth requires extraction, you will probably desire a quality prosthetic to restore oral function. Dental implants, bridges, and crowns are effective replacements for missing teeth, but they are all far more expensive than the cost of regular dental cleanings.

Remember, most dental insurance policies cover most if not all of the cost of dental exams and cleanings. Why? Because health insurance providers know that prevention and early treatment are far more cost-effective than neglect.

Dental Fillings

One common treatment we perform at Seasons of Smiles is cavity fillings. The procedure is minimally invasive and pain-free. A small cavity filling is also affordable. If a cavity goes untreated, it will continue to grow.

Root Canal Therapy

Once the infection reaches the vulnerable inner pulp of a tooth, only root canal therapy or tooth extraction can stop the infection from spreading further. An advanced cavity can be extremely painful, and even effective treatments can result in mild discomfort. Root canals are often followed by the placement of a dental crown.
While we are proud to provide these critical restorative treatments, they can often be prevented by addressing tooth decay early on.

Tips for Avoiding Expensive Dental Procedures

Dentistry is not expensive, but neglect of your teeth can be. To enjoy the full benefits of modern dentistry, Dr. Medina recommends taking these proactive steps.

• Floss daily
• Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Use a fluoride toothpaste
• Reduce sugar intake
• Eat a nutritious, plant-based diet
• Schedule dental visits every six months for cleanings and/or exams
• Don’t put off dental treatments
• Schedule a visit if you have an aching tooth

In short, be proactive. Our teeth are meant to last a lifetime, but they must be taken care of.

Don’t Wait. Schedule Your Preventive Treatment Today

As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. To schedule your next visit at our Camden dental office, please contact Seasons of Smiles online or by calling (207) 236-4740. We look forward to serving you.