Referrals – Ask if your dentist gives a discount for referrals. If you send in your friends and neighbors, will the office give you a break on your bill?
Installments – Ask your dentist if s/he would be willing to allow you to pay for treatments in installments or maybe multiple procedures can be performed in stages over a period of weeks or months. This option does not save actual money; however, it will enable you to pay on a schedule that is easier on your budget.
Second Opinions - Seek second opinions on expensive work. Certain dental problems have various, appropriate treatments available. For instance, missing teeth can be replaced by implants, by a bridge or by a partial denture. All of these are acceptable treatments, but the costs can vary widely. Talking with another professional will help ensure that you have been given all the treatment options for your situation.
Petition – If you are lucky enough to have dental insurance and the treatment or procedure your dentist proposes is denied or simply not covered by your dental plan, you have the option to petition the insurance provider. You or preferably your dentist may need to write a letter and send a more detailed explanation regarding the need for these services.
Cash is King - Ask if your dentist gives a discount for cash. Bill collecting is a frustrating and time consuming endeavor for a dentist’s office. Often, dentists will gladly give clients a discount for cash in exchange for a bill paid-in-full. This method could save you up to 10% at some offices.
Discounts
About the Author
This article was written by Melissa Horn, a mother of two kids under five, a novice golfer. Contact her at melissa@healthcarewithinreach.com