Did you know that one in four Canadians avoid dental treatments because of the costs? In Canada, the average cost of a dental exam alone ranges from $50 – $300, depending on the complexity of your concern.
Maintaining good oral health is essential for a healthy smile and overall well-being, but this can be challenging because of the cost that comes with dental services. Understanding the reasons behind the high fees of these dental procedures can help patients know what goes into what they are paying for. In this guide, we will explore the primary factors that contribute to dental expenses and share helpful tips for managing these costs.
High overhead costs contribute to high dental fees
One of the key factors that drive up dental costs is the overhead costs. Overhead costs are absorbed into the fees that you pay. This would include the rent or mortgage, equipment, and supplies. These are essential to ensure high-quality care.
More advanced clinics with high-tech equipment require additional maintenance and repair expenses, all of which contribute to the fees that patients see. Additionally, staff salaries, including hygienists, assistants, and administrative personnel, add to operating costs.
Specialized training and expertise adds value to dental services
After completing dental school, general dentists often spend more years studying to become specialists in certain fields, such as orthodontics or oral surgery. These orthodontists and oral surgeons have increased value in their services.
But even general dentists invest in continuous education to maintain their licenses and stay-up-to date with the ever evolving world of dentistry and technology. This ongoing education and training are reflected in the costs of dental services.
Dental procedure costs are largely dependent on complexity
The harder the treatment to be done, the more expensive the treatment is. For example, while routine cleaning tends to be more affordable, significant plaque build-up may be present if you haven’t had dental cleaning done in a while. This requires higher time and cost to achieve thorough dental cleaning.
Also, more complex procedures such as crowns and implants require specific materials and laboratory work which can raise the price.
Insurance sometimes does not cut it
While dental insurance can help offset some costs, it is often limited to preventive or routine treatments. This can leave most patients, without comprehensive coverage, with significant out-of-pocket expenses for procedures such as crowns, bridges, or root canals.
Tips to Reduce Dental Costs
Because of the costs that come with paying for necessary dental care, it is important to understand and explore other alternatives or options. Here are some tips:
- Prioritize preventive care – Maintaining good oral hygiene, such as proper brushing, flossing, and routine check-ups, is one of the best ways to avoid costly procedures.
- Shop around – Research clinics in your area to compare fees. You may also ask for clinics affiliated with your existing insurance so you can maximize your plan coverage.
- Check for clinics that follow the BC Fee Guide – The BC fee guide is a comprehensive list of all dental treatments and their set fees. If your chosen dentist follows this guide, you can prepare for your dental cost ahead of time.
- Utilize dental schools – Many dental schools offer treatments at a reduced rate, as they are dental students that work under professional supervision.
- Look for government programs – Check if you qualify for any government-funded dental programs that cover specific dental care.
Conclusion
Some of the reasons why dental care can be expensive are high overhead costs, specialized expertise, complex procedure requirements, and limited insurance coverage. However, by focusing on preventive dentistry and exploring other options, patients can manage and reduce dental costs.
From our dental team to you, our best tip is to focus on prevention. At the end of the day, prioritizing oral health at home, comprehensive dental check-ups, and bi-annual teeth cleaning are some of the best ways to prevent expensive and extensive dental treatments in the future.