5 Discounts You Should Ask Your Dentist About

Dental work can be expensive, even with insurance. However, it does not have to be unattainable. Below are five common discounts that you should ask your dentist about if you have regular dental work completed by the same dentist. 

Sibling Discount or Family Discount 

One of the more common sibling discounts is on orthodontics. Because orthodontics are expensive, and multiple siblings may need them at the same time, many dentists and orthodontists may offer families a special deal on braces. However, it doesn't hurt to ask if your dentist might give you a family discount on other dental procedures, such as regular cleanings and check-ups. 

Research has found that parents with a high amount of cavity-causing bacteria in their mouths often infect their children's mouths with bacteria, making them prone to tooth decay. If you have struggled with tooth decay despite good dental hygiene, you should ask your dentist about a family discount by your child's first birthday. 

Discounts for Immediate Payment in Cash 

Cash payments can save your dentist money and give them more fluid finances, both of which are helpful to your dentist. By paying with cash as opposed to a credit card, you will save your dentist processing fees. Cash also saves the paperwork and time required to submit an insurance claim. If you will be paying your full bill in cash, you can confidently ask for a slight discount. 

Dental Discount Plans 

Dental discount plans are similar to insurance, except they often cover different procedures and the savings are instant. When you use a dental discount plan, you will pay a yearly fee to subscribe, and then you will get discounts at various dental offices that are enrolled in the program. Often times, the discounts will apply to things that are not covered by insurance, such as cosmetic procedures, or are significantly less expensive than insurance. 

With dental discount plans, you are limited in your choice of dentist. However, if you are thinking of enrolling in a discount plan, it may be worthwhile to discuss with your dentist whether they can offer you a loyal client discount, similar to what you would get through your dental discount plan. 

Discounts for Multiple Cosmetic Procedures 

Because cosmetic procedures are rarely seen as necessary, they are often not covered by basic dental insurance. This means that you may have to pay out of pocket for cosmetic procedures. If you elect to have cosmetic procedures completed to enhance your smile or improve your quality of life, you may see whether your dentist will offer you discounts for multiple procedures. You might ask for a free whitening session after several other sessions, or a discount when you complete both dental contouring and cosmetic gum surgery at the same time. 

Discounts for Referrals 

If you love your dentist, you will probably want to tell your friends and family members about their excellent service. Why not get a little discount for all of the business you drum up for your dentist? You should ask your dentist if they offer a referral program. If they agree to it, you should be certain to remind your friends, family members, and co-workers to let your dentist know you are the one who sent them. Don't be shy about giving referrals your business card to give to your dentist during their first visit, so the referral discount gets credited to your account. 

Often, dental fees are slightly more flexible than you think. If you need extensive dental work or desire optional cosmetic work, you should ask your dentist about possible discounts and payment plans that can make your oral care more affordable. 

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