Dental emergencies have a tendency to occur out of nowhere, even if you have decent oral health to begin with. But what do you do when you’re suffering from a toothache or oral injury and you have no dental insurance? It’s important to keep in mind that dental emergencies will only get worse over time, so putting off care is the last thing you should do. Instead, consider the following tips below to help you afford your visit with an emergency dentist in Beverly Hills.

Confirm If Your Issue is Actually an Emergency

While medical emergencies can be easier to confirm, dental emergencies are not always so cut-and-dry. If you aren’t actually experiencing a dental emergency, you don’t want to show up for an appointment and have to pay emergency-level costs for something that could have easily waited until regular business hours.

For example, if you experience any of the following, you should be able to wait until the practice opens or your next scheduled appointment to get it taken care of:

• Lost fillings, crowns or bridges
• Broken, chipped or cracked teeth (with no discomfort)
• Damaged retainers
• Dull toothaches that come and go

With that said, if you are dealing with a loose or knocked-out tooth, painful swelling or aches, or consistent bleeding, you need to be seen right away. Furthermore, if you have a broken or dislocated jaw, you need to go to the emergency room as soon as possible.

Start Considering Your Options

There are multiple locations to consider when managing a dental emergency without dental insurance. For example, dental schools house students who perform treatments under the careful supervision of a licensed dentist. They can often provide you with affordable emergency care. Free and/or governmental clinics may also be near you and led by dentists willing to volunteer their services at zero cost to those in need or without insurance.

Lastly, it’s worth it to confirm if any charity or community events providing dental services are happening in your city. While this should be a last resort, it could mean the difference between dealing with dental pain and getting the treatment you need. For example, patients of all ages should search for Mission of Mercy Dentistry Events, while Give Kids a Smile is geared more towards younger patients.

Check If the Dentist Offers a Payment Plan

If you visit an emergency dentist for care without dental insurance, make sure to ask them upfront if they offer payment plans for treatment. Many of these plans come with little to zero interest attached if approved. In some cases, they may apply a discount if you pay via cash.

Your urgent dental issue does not have to be left untreated just because you lack dental insurance. The sooner you get your emergency treated, the better off you’ll be in the long-term, so don’t hesitate to give an emergency dentist a call!

About Beverly Hills Complete Dentistry

Dr. Kboudi will do everything they can to see you the same day that your dental emergency occurs. Dr. Kboudi has the knowledge to get you out of discomfort and on an effective, dedicated treatment plan. On top of that, they’re happy to offer third-party financing for those who do not currently have dental insurance. To schedule an appointment, you can contact them through their website.