I don't have dental insurance what can I do?

I just turned 23 so Im off my mothers dental insurace. What other options do I have? I am currently working part time and insurance is only offered to full time employees.

I don't have dental insurance what can I do?
Take really good care of your teeth until you have insurance again. You can go with far fewer cleanings if you are diligent with your oral hygeine and using effective toothpaste. You also need to maintain a healthy diet. If you have a good relationship with your family dentist, I am sure they will work with you if you get into an emergency situation. Also, you can get good, affordable care at a dental school, or get cleanings through a hygeine program if you have any near you.
Reply:BRUSH BRUSH BRUSH.





My parents don't have dental insurance, we added it up, and it wasn't cost effective for our family
Reply:most dentist are willing to put you on a payment plan, especially if you are already established with them. I would call and ask before the appointment.
Reply:my advice would be to get a job with benefits asap. individual dental insurance is unaffordable to most. if this is not an option i would try to make a payment plan with my dentist (that's what i do, no dental is available for me). most dentists will do this for you (if they've known you a while) they are aware that dental procedures are very expensive. best of luck!
Reply:Dental insurance is usually a rip off anyway because it has an annual maximum of what it will pay. For what you spend on insurance premiums, you could just pay to have your teeth cleaned every 6 months. If you do that, odds are you won't have any serious dental problems anyway. Call around to different dentist offices and see what they charge for a cleaning. I'm assuming you aren't having any problems since you didn't mention any. Pick the most reasonable price, but go with someone you can get a recommendation on as well.
Reply:Let your dentist know ahead of time. Compare prices, shop around, ask questions. Sometimes dental offices are willing to put you on a payment plan. Keep up your part-time job, but continue looking for a full-time with benefits. There is also dental insurance plans you may take out privately, but the are very expensive and have very minimal coverage. Just whatever you do, take care of your teeth :-)
Reply:Rachel,


Is there a dental college in your area? If so, the dental students will be able to clean your teeth and diagnose (and possibly treat) any potential problems, for a greatly reduced fee.


I know several people who have used this resource.
Reply:Don't worry about it to much dental insurance is kind of a scam. Unless you need major dental work done it is not worth the money. If all you are doing is having cleanings twice a year and x-rays once a year, then it will not be much. I know my dentist only charges like 80 for a cleaning and like 130 if and when he does x-rays. So I would just start saving some money. Put back money for a time until you get like 5 thousand in a savings account. That way if you should ever need some serious dental work you will have the money for it. Other wise I would just call your dentist and see how much your cleanings will be and how much the x-ray will coast.