You can find dental care, free or cheap, for low income families and single people if you are willing to put some time into your search and are willing to travel a little bit to get it. While few dentists will take care of your oral health without charge, there are some options that you will have to look at. Listed in this article are just a few of the things you’ll want to check out if you cannot afford dental insurance, but need to have some work done on your mouth, teeth, or gums.
Check Your Health Insurance: You might have some limited coverage without realizing it. Many health providers cover emergency work or surgical oral procedures, such as having a tooth pulled. This is a great option if you need to cover the work cheap, since you will generally only have a small copay out of pocket. Make a call and find out if you have coverage for a dentist office visit.
Public Health: If you meet low income guidelines and restrictions, you’ll find that public health could be a great option to keep in mind for your oral health care. All you’ll have to do is check the yellow pages and see where the public health department is in your area and find out if you qualify for assistance with dental care and coverage.
Discount Plans: This isn’t insurance, but some companies allow a subscription at a very cheap monthly rate, which allows you discounts at participating dentist offices. Sometimes the discounts are negotiated by the type of procedure and sometimes it’s a blanket percentage off. Only certain offices participate, so you need to make sure you find one that will work with you and your plan.
Negotiate Prior to Visit: Cash payment as soon as the work is done will often allow you to haggle a little. Ask for an estimate and explain that you’re a low income family in need of some assistance. They dental office might be willing to work with you. Try to negotiate a discount before the work is done.
Cheap Payment Plans: Some companies offer revolving credit for dental work, while some dentists cater to low income families and children and will accept monthly payments at low rates of interest. It’s worth checking out to see if it will work for you and your family.
When you have options for dental care free or cheap, low income families will want to check them out.
