Many Americans have already received their tax refund. If you have extra cash in your bank account, don’t blow your refund on a shopping spree or a big-ticket item. Instead, use it to invest in your smile. Many Americans are looking for ways to save money, which can cause dental care to be put on hold to avoid added expenses. If you’ve been skipping your semi-annual appointments or delaying dental work, put your refund to good use. Here are 3 ways to invest the money in healthy teeth and gums.
1. Schedule a Cleaning and Checkup
The American Dental Association recommends a cleaning and checkup every 6 months to keep common oral health issues at bay. Although brushing and flossing are effective in reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease, they aren’t enough.
A routine cleaning allows your dentist to remove plaque and tartar to keep your teeth and gums healthy. They will also monitor your dental health to detect anything concerning while it is small, like weakened enamel. As a result, you’re less likely to need costly procedures down the road.
You can save $50 on restorative and emergency fees for every $1 spent on prevention. If you have dental insurance, you can enjoy 100% coverage for preventative services after a copay. You’ll preserve your natural smile and reduce your overall oral health expenses.
2. Book Any Dental Work
Few people have extra cash on hand regularly for dental work. If you’ve been putting off replacing an old restoration, treating a cavity, or addressing another issue, you’re opening the door to a dental emergency.
You may never expect it to happen to you, but 1 in 6 Americans has a dental emergency annually. Many are caused by untreated oral health problems. You can avoid a dental emergency and a costly bill by scheduling your procedure.
You can use your dental insurance to partially cover the cost, so you don’t have to worry about blowing your entire tax refund. After meeting your annual deductible, your insurance can pay up to 80% of the expense of common restorative procedures, like fillings, crowns, and root canal therapy.
3. Revamp Your Smile
The appearance of your smile is equally important as the health of your teeth and gums. Research has found that an attractive smile is attributed to youth, confidence, and success. Not to mention, a beautiful smile can also affect your self-esteem and career prospects.
If you’re embarrassed by stains, chips, or gaps, invest in a smile you’ll be proud of. You have more options than ever to address common aesthetic concerns, so there’s a solution to fit your budget.
While you have the cash on hand, don’t miss your opportunity to improve your oral health. A healthy, confident smile will never go out of style or become outdated. You’ll enjoy long-lasting results by investing in your smile.
About Dr. Natalie Ortiz
Dr. Ortiz’s career in dentistry began in high school after working in a dental office and pursuing her dental training at Creighton University School of Dentistry. Dr. Ortiz has regularly continued her education in many specialties, like Invisalign and CEREC. She is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association. Request an appointment through our website or call (575) 233-6648.