At your last routine checkup, did your dentist in Brecksville say you need a filling? If you’re worried about the cost, you might delay scheduling that appointment – especially if you’re not experiencing pain or discomfort. It may not seem like a big deal, but leaving a cavity untreated can have severe complications down the line. By getting it done now, you can spare yourself the long-term consequences and save money! Are you still not convinced? Continue reading to learn why you should get any fillings you need before the year ends.
Why Do Dentists Recommend Fillings?
Fillings are an excellent solution for damaged or decayed teeth. They help protect the healthy area of a tooth, extending its life for many more years. If you have a cavity, your dentist will recommend a filling to treat it. They’ll remove the decayed portion of a tooth and “fill” it to restore its size, shape, and function. Since cavities cannot heal on their own, it’s crucial to treat them before they worsen. Otherwise, you risk needing more extensive and costly procedures down the road.
Will Dental Insurance Cover Fillings?
It’s worth noting that every dental insurance plan is unique, meaning benefits can vary from person to person. But the good news? Since dental fillings are often considered medically necessary, most insurance plans will cover the bulk of the cost. The exact amount of coverage you’ll receive depends on factors like your deductible and level of coverage. However, it’s always a good idea to get any outstanding dental treatments before the year ends – especially if you’ve already met your deductible and haven’t hit your annual maximum. If you’d like to get more details on your level of coverage, call the number on your benefits plan card or your benefits office.
What Happens When You Choose Not to Get a Dental Filling
If your dentist said you needed a filling, it’s best to get it done as soon as possible. Otherwise, the decay will worsen, and you’ll need to undergo more complex and expensive procedures, such as:
- A Root Canal – If the decay reaches the pulp chamber of the tooth (where the nerve and blood vessels are), bacteria will irritate and infect the pulp. When that happens, it may lead to an abscess, which is a swollen area of tissue filled with pus. They are quite painful and can’t be repaired with a simple filling. Your dentist will need to perform a root canal to save your tooth. They’ll remove the infected portion, clean the inside, and seal the tooth with a filling or crown.
- Extraction – When a cavity goes untreated for far too long, the decay may destroy the tooth entirely. At this point, even a root canal won’t be able to save the tooth. Your dentist will need to perform an extraction and replace the tooth with an implant or bridge.
All in all, getting fillings done now can help you maximize your benefits before they expire. The deadline for most plans is December 31st, meaning any unused benefits won’t roll over into the new year. By scheduling your appointment right away, you can save money and maintain a strong, healthy smile!
About the Author
Dr. Mo Saleh has several years of dentistry experience under his belt. He completed his dental education at the Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. Dr. Saleh is passionate about helping his patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health. If you would like to know whether your dental insurance covers fillings, he and the team will be more than happy to go over your coverage with you. Visit our website or call (440) 546-9494 to make an appointment with Dr. Saleh.