Information Library
Start Reading
For Philadelphians who need quality dental care, Penn Dental Medicine has long been the go-to source. We’re proud of our team of faculty, students, and staff for their commitment to providing the highest-quality affordable dental care. Whether you need a routine cleaning and exam, or a full jaw reconstruction after an illness or injury, Penn Dental Medicine is here.
However, we also understand that cost can be a concern when it comes to taking care of your health. According to one survey, more than half of adults have delayed — or never gotten — some sort of medical care because they cannot afford it. Among those who didn’t get necessary treatment, 55% put off dental care.
For most healthy people, putting off a routine medical checkup isn’t a big concern. However, when it comes to dental care, missed appointments and delayed treatments can mean trouble for your overall well-being. At the very least, it can significantly increase the cost of treatment later on.
The Cost of Putting Off Dental Treatments
One issue that many families face is a lack of dental insurance coverage. It’s estimated that about a quarter of Americans don’t have dental insurance, despite evidence that those who have the coverage have better overall health. Without dental insurance, it can be challenging to find affordable dental care. Many people are forced to make difficult decisions. This often means not getting the treatment they need, even when they know that the potential costs in the future could be even higher.
For example, dental emergencies account for millions of emergency room visits every year, many of which are avoidable with routine oral care and hygiene. In 2017 alone, the costs for dental care in emergency rooms reached $1.9 billion. Although traumatic injuries can bring patients to the ER for dental emergencies, the most common reason for the visits is extreme tooth pain. Usually, this is associated with untreated decay and severe infection.
Skipping dental visits doesn’t just increase the potential for a visit to the hospital. People without access to affordable dental care often learn to “live with” dental problems. Even when they have trouble eating, experience ongoing pain, or experience tooth loss, the cost of care keeps them from getting treatment. These issues can affect the quality of life: a report from the American Dental Association says that 38% of people say their poor dental health makes them less satisfied with life in general.
Poor oral health can also affect income potential. Studies show that people with missing or damaged teeth earn less and are less likely to be hired than people with healthy smiles. Among those who are employed, poor oral health can cause missed workdays and reduced productivity, potentially affecting their ability to advance.
Of course, none of this even considers the potential health issues that can arise from not getting proper dental care. Poor oral health is associated with a host of ailments, including:
- Increased risk for cardiovascular disease
- Increased risk for diabetes
- Increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease
- Increased risk of certain cancers
Clearly, the costs of delayed dental care are significant. So what can those who need affordable dental care in Philadelphia do?
Penn Dental Medicine: Your Home for Affordable Dental Care
Penn Dental Medicine provides Philadelphians with access to the highest quality, comprehensive, and affordable dental care in every specialty, including:
- Endodontics
- General dentistry
- Oral medicine
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric dentistry
- Periodontics
- Prosthodontics
Services are provided by student dentists under the supervision of Penn Dental educators, who are themselves some of the most experienced dental providers in the area. All patients receive an estimate of the fees for their service at the time of their visit. Our fees are reviewed annually, and are typically lower than those of other practices.
Although Penn Dental Medicine requires payment at the time of services, there are options to help patients cover their expenses. The practice accepts:
- Cash, check, or credit cards
- Most dental insurance plans
- Pennsylvania Medicaid
- Care Credit, a third-party financing option for qualifying patients
Don’t Let Finances Keep You from a Healthy Life
Penn Dental Medicine is proud to provide affordable dental care for all ages. There is no need to let concerns about cost put you at risk for a serious medical issue, or keep you from enjoying your life. To help you understand the care options at Penn Dental Medicine, download our complimentary ebook, “Dental Work Without Stress”. In this short read, you’ll learn more about how Penn Doctors can help you with everything from cavities to misaligned teeth, without breaking the bank.
You can also make an appointment today by clicking here or calling (215) 898-8165. Don’t wait to get the dental care you need. It’s the best choice for your health, and your wallet.
