Reports show that people without dental insurance are twice as likely to be unhappy with their teeth compared to those who are insured. However, 65% of Americans who aren’t insured have skipped dental visits or procedures primarily due to cost, keeping them from achieving a healthy, happy smile.
In this blog, we cover everything you need to know about where to find dentists that accept no insurance. We also list four affordable dental care options to consider. Need to find a dentist in Richmond, Virginia (VA) that you can see without insurance? We have a dental practice in mind.
If you’re searching Google for “dentist near me no insurance” or “dentist without insurance near me,” keep reading.
4 Affordable Dental Care Options
Can you go to the dentist without insurance? Yes, but your visit and any treatment will be an out-of-pocket expense. When you have insurance, the insurance company pays for a percentage of your dental work, making it more affordable. If you need dental work without insurance, 100% of the cost falls on you.
Here are four affordable dental care options to consider if you need a dentist but have no insurance.
1. Dental School
When you search for dental programs via the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), you’ll find that every state has at least two while others have significantly more. Each of these schools is full of students who need hands-on experience working with patients before they can graduate.
Most dental schools run clinics where the public can receive discounted dental work performed by student dentists that accept no insurance. If this sounds like a good alternative to seeing an established dentist without insurance, search for a local dental program near you on CODA’s website.
2. Financing
Another option is to finance your dental care, which allows you to pay for it in installments. For example, CareCredit is a financing option that’s accepted through a national network of more than 250,000 healthcare providers. They even provide a list of dental procedure costs to give you an idea of what to expect to pay for dental work without insurance. Ask your dentist what financing solutions they have available for patients without insurance.
3. Sliding Scale Dental Clinics
Many charities, public health and human services, and nonprofits offer free or reduced dental clinics using a sliding fee for those who meet certain eligibility requirements, such as low income. A sliding fee means that patients receive discounted services relative to their ability to pay for care. Authority Dental is an example of a nonprofit that helps people find affordable local dentists through a national directory of dental programs.
4. Membership Savings Plans
Are you looking for a dentist in Richmond, VA? No insurance? No problem! At Northside Dental Co., we have designed a membership savings plan just for people who say, “I don’t have dental insurance.” This plan covers routine dental care and qualifies you for additional discounts.
Here’s what’s included in our membership savings plan:
- Two comprehensive exams
- Yearly x-rays
- Two cleanings
- Annual oral cancer screenings
- Two fluoride treatments
- 15% off minor treatments (e.g., fillings)
- 10% off major treatments (e.g., crowns, dental implants)
You don’t need insurance to find affordable dental care. Get dental work without insurance at Northside Dental Co.
Do You Need a Dentist But Have No Insurance? Call Northside Dental Co.
Don’t wait until you say, “I have a toothache and no insurance” before contacting a dentist. Be proactive. As the Surgeon General’s report on America’s oral health: “You cannot be healthy without oral health. Oral health and general health should not be interpreted as separate entities.” Stay ahead of dental emergencies by seeing a dentist every 6 months.
If you’re looking for dentists that accept no insurance, we invite you to book an appointment at Northside Dental Co. As the leading dental office in Richmond, VA, we’re proud to offer high-quality dental care, and we’re always happy to answer any of your questions.
Not ready to book an appointment? Contact us today to learn more about our membership savings plan for those who need a dentist but have no insurance.