Dental fillings are the go-to solution to treat early stages of tooth decay. They are made of a composite resin that is shaded to the color of your enamel to blend in with your tooth. Whether you have a new cavity or you need a replacement, don’t wait to get your filling. You can use your dental insurance to lower the cost. However, if you wait too long, you can lose your tooth and dental coverage.
Risks of Delaying Treatment
Tooth decay can be treated with a filling if it doesn’t extend beyond your enamel or dentin. After cleaning your tooth, a weak acid is applied to open the pores in your enamel to ensure a strong bond. The resin is placed on your tooth and hardened using a special dental light. It’s that easy!
Unfortunately, delaying treatment can cause decay to reach the inner layer of your tooth. A filling will no longer be an option. Your pulp can become infected and inflamed, which only a root canal can treat. Root canal therapy is more invasive and expensive than a filling. If you continue to put off treatment, your tooth will eventually die.
Dental Insurance Covers Fillings
You don’t have to wait to see your dentist for a filling if money is tight because you can use your dental insurance. Your premiums give you access to a nationwide network of dental professionals. You benefit from reduced rates for common services, including dental fillings. After meeting your deductible, your insurance can pay 80% of the expenses to save your tooth without spending your life’s savings.
Your dental insurance will recommend choosing a dentist who is in their network because they have pre-negotiated rates with specific practices. You’ll enjoy more coverage at the time of service, but you can still visit an out-of-network dentist if you prefer. You’ll have to pay the difference between your insurance’s allowed amount and the dentist’s fees.
Your Benefits Don’t Last Forever
Your dental coverage doesn’t last forever. Your benefits reset at the end of the year and you’ll lose anything you haven’t used. You won’t be reimbursed for your premiums or deductibles, either. On average, less than 3% of people meet or exceed their yearly limits. There’s still time to use your coverage before it expires. Your dentist will create a personalized treatment plan and help you maximize your benefits to lower the amount you will.
You can stop decay and its tracks and prevent tooth loss by treating your cavity quickly. You’ll preserve your natural smile and lower your overall dental expenses.
About Dr. Kamlesh Makwana
Dr. Makwana earned his dental degree from Marquette University and has regularly continued his education in many specialties, including cosmetic dentistry. He accepts many dental insurance plans to keep a healthy, beautiful smile within everyone’s budget. Request an appointment through his website or call (636) 489-1083.
