You just learned that you need a tooth-colored filling to repair a cavity. You know it’s necessary, but you’re not in a hurry to schedule treatment, especially since the coming months are likely to be busy. With this kind of mindset, you not only jeopardize your smile, but you also risk losing the benefits available through your dental insurance. Learn why it’s best to move ahead with restorative treatment now instead of waiting until next year.
What Can Happen If You Neglect Restorative Treatment for a Cavity?
Regardless of how serious you think a cavity might be, the reality is that a decayed tooth can quickly worsen, resulting in further damage and more extensive treatment.
What can begin as a small cavity can turn into a serious infection that affects the root of the tooth and eventually the jawbone. Choosing to wait to get a tooth-colored filling can lead to:
- Enamel damage that cannot be reversed.
- Spreading decay that puts your healthy teeth at risk.
- Needing a root canal to address an infection deep within the tooth.
- An abscess that causes an accumulation of pus and significant pain.
- A necessary tooth extraction to remove the tooth because it can no longer support itself.
Instead, you can choose a tooth-colored filling to avoid these situations, ensuring your tooth is fully restored and remains healthy in the future.
Why Should You Use Your Dental Insurance Benefits?
Another important reason to agree to a tooth-colored filling now instead of waiting until later is that you can use your available dental insurance benefits to help lower the cost.
Most companies cover 70-80% of the total bill, so your restorative treatment will cost you less out of pocket. That is, if you have met your annual deductible and have available funds remaining in your yearly maximum.
Dental insurance benefits do not roll over at the end of each year, so it’s best to use them while you can. Otherwise, you’ll be required to meet your deductible again after the new year.
If you’re unsure whether you are covered or how much your insurer will pay, don’t hesitate to ask a dental staff member for help. They can review your policy and determine what kind of out-of-pocket costs you will incur after filing a claim with your insurance.
Don’t put your smile or savings at risk. Use your dental benefits today to get the long-term care you need.
About the Author
Dr. Erin Prach earned her dental degree at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine and has obtained the “Qualified Dentist Designation” from the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine. Working closely with patients and their families, she encourages them to use their dental insurance to reduce out-of-pocket costs for treatment. If you need restorative care but are worried about the price tag, visit our website or call (307) 337–4770 to schedule an appointment.