If you’ve been putting off getting a root canal because you’re concerned about the cost, don’t wait any longer. Not only are you at risk of losing your tooth, but your dental insurance will expire at the end of the year. You’ll lose anything you don’t use. Don’t miss your chance to save your tooth for minimal out-of-pocket expenses. Here’s why you should schedule your root canal right away.
Risks of Delaying Root Canal Therapy
It’s a common misconception that a root canal is needed after a tooth has died, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. A root canal is a preventive treatment to stop a tooth from dying and needing to be removed.
Every tooth is important for a healthy, functional smile. Losing even one tooth will cause your jawbone to shrink. You can lose up to 25% of your jaw’s density within the first year of missing a tooth. It will continue to shrink as time passes, changing the appearance of your face. You’ll also be at risk of cavities, gum disease, and additional missing teeth.
A root canal can save you from the hassle and expense of replacing a tooth after an extraction. You’ll preserve your natural smile and save money down the road.
What to Expect During a Root Canal
Your dentist will administer a numbing medication to block any pain. They’ll use special dental instruments to remove the pulp, the inner layer of your tooth. After sterilizing your tooth, it will be sealed with a special material called gutta-percha. Your dentist may place a crown over it to give it a layer of protection.
Maximize Your Dental Insurance
Don’t be concerned about the cost of root canal therapy. Your dental insurance can pay 100% of the expenses for your consultation and diagnostic services for a co-payment. Your dental insurance can cover 50% to 80% of the costs for your root canal and your crown after meeting your annual deductible. You can use your yearly allowance to pay for your treatment.
Besides using your dental insurance, you can also use CareCredit to cover any out-of-pocket expenses. Based on your credit approval, you can enjoy little or no interest in financing using a monthly payment plan.
Time is running out to use your coverage. You won’t be reimbursed for your deductible, and your annual allowance won’t carry over if you don’t maximize your policy. Use your dental coverage before it expires to save your tooth from needing to be removed.
About Dr. Walter K. Kulick
Dr. Kulick earned his dental degree at the University of Pennsylvania and has regularly continued his education in various specialties, like facial pain and prosthodontics. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the Florida Dental Association. Request an appointment through his website or call (954) 507-3998.