If you’ve ever struggled to afford dental care, you aren’t alone. That’s because 181 million Americans avoided a visit to the dentist in 2010.
While most Americans can afford basic procedures like fillings and cleanings, the cost of care increases steeply as dental procedures become more complex. Root canals, bridges, and TMJ surgeries can cost you thousands of dollars of which insurance only covers a portion.
This issue has given rise to the luxury vs necessity debate regarding dental care. Is dental care essential? Or is it a luxury designed only for those who are privileged enough to afford it?
Are you considering skipping out on the dental procedure you need due to the high cost of care? Before you cancel your appointment, read this primer on why we think dental care isn’t a luxury– it’s essential.
Why is Dental Care So Expensive?
In the US, there’s much talk about why medical and dental care is too costly for the average patient to afford.
Some experts allege that healthcare providers are to blame. The US has some of the most skilled and educated health professionals. It stands to reason then that any services provided by these experts are going to be more pricey.
Yet other experts tell a different story about insurance companies’ role in the cost of dental care.
The US multipayer insurance system has been shown to drive up the cost of medical care and dental care is no different. If you’ve ever racked up a high bill at the dentist’s office, you know the shock of discovering your insurance won’t pay. Even those people who have “good insurance” wind up paying thousands of dollars out of pocket for a root canal.
When insurance won’t pay for the dental procedures you need, you may wonder: is dental care even necessary?
Dental Care and the Luxury vs Necessity Debate
Nearly 50% of the US population aged over 30 years suffers from some form of gum disease. And though gum disease is common, that doesn’t mean it isn’t dangerous. Without receiving the care you need to revert plaque-causing gum disease, you may experience complications like:
- Painful collections of pus in your gums
- Periodontal tissue damage
- Gum recession
- Tooth loss
What’s more, 1 in every 4 children under the age of 5 in the US already has a cavity.
The dental crisis in the US isn’t just affecting oral health, though. That’s because dental health affects your overall health. For instance, periodontal disease has been associated with poor cardiovascular health and even neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
With all of these health complications associated with poor oral health, receiving the dental procedures you need isn’t a luxury. It’s essential for keeping yourself and your loved ones healthy for many years to come.
Find Affordable Dental Care
Looking for affordable dental care in Bloomfield, New Jersey? Bloomfield Dental Designs has the quality care you need. Book an appointment today and never worry about the luxury vs necessity dental care dilemma again!