7 Ways to Save Money on Dental Care

1. Compare dental insurance plans

Dental insurance works like health insurance but for oral healthcare.

Depending on the type of dental coverage you have, your insurance may include preventive care (cleanings), restorative care (crowns), and other procedures. But it’s unlikely your insurance will protect you from all out-of-pocket costs.

Before buying dental insurance, you’ll want to compare plans to find the best fit for your budget and dental needs. You may need to consider the answers to the following questions:

• Does the plan offer individual and family coverage?

• What’s the maximum annual benefit?

• How much are monthly premiums?

• How large is the provider network?

• What are the out-of-pocket costs when you access care, such as copays?

• What types of plans are available?

• Is there a waiting period before coverage begins?

• Does the plan offer special allowances?

• Are there any exclusions? For example, orthodontic treatment (braces) or other care that’s not covered.

You might search for a plan that includes your current dentist in its network or has plenty of participating providers nearby. Or you might look for one that covers a range of services. People often think the least costly dental insurance is the best value. But it’s important to assess the services you’ll likely need within the year.

2. Buy a dental savings plan

Even without dental insurance, you can access discounted care by buying a dental savings plan. Some major insurers offer this option. But these plans should not be confused with dental insurance.

A dental savings (or discount) plan gives you access to a network of dentists and specialists who accept discounted, prenegotiated amounts for dental services and treatments. This can lower your out-of-pocket costs.

People sometimes buy discount plans because they:

• Are unable to afford dental insurance

• Maxed out their plan’s annual benefit payout

• Are not expecting frequent visits to the dentist

With a discount plan, members automatically receive reduced rates. If you have both a discount plan and dental insurance, you may be able to use your savings plan after reaching your maximum annual insurance benefit.

3. Visit a dental school

Getting dental work done at a dental school is another possible way to save. You can search for accredited U.S. dental schools, then contact them about reduced rates. Some dental schools require that you meet certain requirements to receive care. They may ask you for information regarding:

• Income

• Household size

• Dependents

Usually, dental students provide general services, with oversight by a faculty dentist. Because providing care is a part of dental student training, visits may take longer. Fees may be up to 50% lower, depending on where you live and the type of clinic you visit.

4. Negotiate

If your dentist bills you for more than you anticipated, try to get the charges reduced. Use these three steps:

1. Contact the billing department. Start by explaining your financial situation. You may be asked to verify that you’re uninsured, underinsured, or financially challenged.

2. Ask about cash prices. You may be eligible for a discount that’s not reflected on your bill. 

3. Request a payment plan. Installments can make it easier to eliminate medical debt.

Be cautious about paying by credit card. Interest can increase the amount you end up spending.

5. Visit community health centers

Consider scheduling an appointment at a community health center. These clinics are often located in underserved areas and may offer routine and specialty dental services on a sliding fee scale. Appointments and availability of services may be limited. Visit the Find a Health Center locator to search for a clinic near you that offers dental services.

6. Use your FSA, HSA, or HRA

You can use your flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), or health reimbursement arrangement (HRA) to save on dental expenses. These are tax-advantaged accounts. Funds can be used to pay for eligible dental expenses not covered by insurance, including:

• Bridges

• Dentures

• Extractions

• Fillings

• Gum cleanings

• Root canals

• Sealant application

• Teeth cleanings

• Wisdom tooth removal

• X-rays

7. Go to preventive appointments as recommended

Maintaining your oral health is one of the easiest ways to control long-term dental costs. You can do this by taking these preventive measures:

• Get a routine dental exam twice a year.

• Get your teeth cleaned every 6 months.

• Get dental X-rays based on your cavity and gum disease risk

At-home maintenance can help support professional care. This includes brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily.

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