By Dr. Eric Wolfe
The cost of dental care is a growing concern, especially for older adults. According to AARP: The Magazine’s article Hold on to Your Smile by Jessica Migala, “Dental care is expensive, and for many of us, it’s a luxury.” The article points out that only about three in ten adults over 65 have dental insurance, based on CDC data. And in most cases, Medicare does not cover basic dental services like cleanings, fillings, extractions or dentures. This is the last of a three-part blog series featuring insights from AARP and Migala.
This lack of coverage leads many to delay or avoid dental visits–until problems become more serious and costly. That’s why Mike Adelberg, executive director of the National Association of Dental Plans, says “purchasing extra coverage is a must.” He explains, “People with dental coverage are more likely to go to the dentist and receive important services.”
Fortunately, there are several practical strategies for making dental care more affordable without compromising on quality or outcomes.
Plan Ahead for Big Procedures
Migala advises that if you know you have a major dental procedure coming up–such as implants, crowns or bridges–it’s smart to take a closer look at your current insurance coverage. You may need a richer plan with a higher annual maximum and no waiting periods.
Sheena Shuman, director of Oral Health Services for Older Adults at the University of Minnesota, says, “We frequently see older people coming in with a Medicare Advantage plan thinking they have a lot of coverage, but it turns out they may just have preventive coverage.”
For those planning ahead, temporary supplemental plans may offer the flexibility and benefits needed to complete treatment affordably and without delay.
Consider a Dedicated Dental Savings Fund
Migala rightly points out retirement planning often includes healthcare, housing and long-term care–yet few people budget specifically for dental needs. She cites Edgard El Chaar, clinical professor at the University of Pennsylvania, as encouraging a different approach: he advises setting aside enough money for preventive care–like annual cleanings and X-rays. Additional savings can go toward unexpected procedures such as a root canal or dental implant. “It’s never too late to start a fund,” he says.
How We Can Help
At Summit Smiles Dental, we are deeply committed to making dental care accessible to all patients–whether you have insurance or not.
We do accept all dental insurance, and we will file claims for you. We are also in-network with many major benefit providers, including Aetna, Cigna, Delta Dental, Guardian, Humana, MetLife, United Concordia, United Healthcare and others.
No insurance? No problem. We offer several flexible solutions:
- CareCredit® and short-term in-office financing for those who qualify
- An in-house dental discount plan that covers preventive, cosmetic and restorative care for a single annual fee
- Plan options including Adult, Family and Periodontics packages to match your needs
We believe everyone deserves access to high-quality dental care. Whether you are planning for a full cosmetic dental procedure, restorative care or trying just to manage unexpected costs, we are here to help you afford a beautiful, lasting, healthy smile.