What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Dental Insurance?

Whether it is a regular dental checkup and cleaning or preparing to have a crown put into place, dental work of any kind is not cheap. This factor alone is one of the many reasons patients forgo seeing a dental professional and ultimately end up having serious problems over time. So, what can do you if you choose to see a dentist with no insurance to pay for the services you need? Find out about the many alternative options available to you that will ensure you receive the care you need without emptying your bank account.

What is CareCredit?

CareCredit is a third-party financier that offers short-term and long-term financing options for you and your family’s dental needs. By providing low to Zero-interest on certain payment plans, you can move forward with your necessary dental work while staying on a budget you can feel good about.

What is Lending Club?

Lending Club is an alternative financing option for patients interested in applying for a loan to cover the cost of their dental work. Deciding between a 3 or 5-year term, you can expect low, fixed rates and convenient monthly payments that are fixed, so you can better budget your upcoming treatment or procedure.

How Do They Work?

Both CareCredit and Lending Club make it possible for you to receive the treatment you need without worrying about how to pay for it. But to better understand each company, here is a quick breakdown of each:

With CareCredit, it works differently than a traditional credit card. You will use it to pay any out of pocket expenses, even if you don’t have dental insurance. Short-term financing options include 6, 12, 18, and 24-month plans, and if you have a purchase of more than $200, no interest will be charged when you make your minimum monthly payments and pay the full amount by the time the promotional period ends. If necessary, you can also apply for long-term financing for 24, 36, 48, or 60 months with a reduced interest rate and fixed monthly payments.

Should you opt for Lending Club instead, you will apply online for either an installment loan or revolving line of credit. Depending on the plan you purchase, you can expect a low to Zero-interest payment plan for a designated span of time. You can opt for a fixed-rate plan or a promotional no-interest or promotional rate plan. Each is designed to help you stick to your budget.

After receiving your funds, you will pay for your necessary treatment and begin to pay back the loan in monthly installments. With Lending Club, there is no upfront payment and no prepayment penalties.

Why See a Dentist Who Offers Affordable Treatment for All Patients?

When choosing to see a dental professional who believes in offering affordable treatment for all patients, you can trust that your oral health is their priority. No matter if you have insurance or not, they want to make sure you receive the care you need. Most dental offices employ a team of skilled staff members who can help you enroll in various financing programs and help you save the most money when it comes to your out-of-pocket expenses.

Even if it all sounds confusing and uncertain, your dental team is ready to help. You’ll never need to forgo treatment again thanks to the alternative payment options that are available.

About the Author

Dr. Thomas Snarr has been working in dentistry for more than 30 years. Earning his degree from Ricks College, he went on to attend Creighton Dental School and completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. As one of two dentists at Cornerstone Family Dental, he works alongside Dr. Bo Crofoot, whose career in dentistry spans more than 15 years. Dr. Crofoot completed his bachelor’s degree at Idaho State University before pursuing a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Creighton University. Both dentists believe in the importance of regular oral care and look forward to helping you achieve a brighter, healthier smile. Contact us by visiting our website or calling (208) 356-4240 to learn how we can help you take care of your oral health even if you don’t have insurance.