My mother always taught me that you get what you pay for. I grew up always getting the best of everything. But, my husband was in a horrible accident and hasn’t worked for several months. It’s time for everyone to go to the dental office again. We can’t afford our old dental fees, especially because at least one of us usually needs an additional procedure. I’m thinking of trying one of those “affordable dentists” I see advertised, but I’m worried the care will be subpar.
Cecilia – New York
Cecilia,
While it is often true you have to pay for quality, that isn’t always the case in dentistry. It depends on the dentist and his or her philosophy in offering affordable dentistry.
Some cut their prices in the hopes of drawing in more customers and making up profit in volume (or by cutting corners). These are usually new or inexperienced dentists that need to draw in a customer base.
Others do it out of a sense of compassion. They went into the field knowing they wanted to serve a lower income clientele.
One thing I’d do is check their reviews. See what patients who’ve been to their office have to say about the type of care they received there.
Don’t count out your current dentist though. If you’ve been a patient there for a while, the office will likely be willing to work with you financially if you explain your current circumstances.
This blog is brought to you by Dr. Raymond Bolt.