Should I Use My Stimulus Money Toward Dental Treatment?

Did you recently receive your government stimulus check? While many are choosing to put theirs into savings or use it toward their next family vacation, you may be wondering what you can do with it now. Yes, you could take your money and indulge in a shopping spree or weekend getaway for some self-care, but have you thought about how it can help improve the health and aesthetics of your smile? Are there changes you would like to make to your teeth with the help of cosmetic dentistry? Or maybe you’ve been putting off having that dental crown put into place? A dentist in Arlington shares how you can benefit when choosing to use your stimulus check on your smile.

How Extra Money Can Mean a Healthier, More Beautiful Smile

Now that you have an extra $1,400 from the government to spend, you have the opportunity to put it toward something that will make a lasting impact – your smile. This among of money can make a big difference when it comes to receiving preventive, restorative, or even cosmetic dental work. Yes, your dental insurance will help cover the cost of some services, but depending on your needs, this extra money can keep you from dipping into your savings. So, what can you do with your stimulus check? Here are a few options:

• Cosmetic Dentistry – Not covered by dental insurance, the extra $1,400 you recently received can certainly help to lower your out-of-pocket expenses when it comes to paying for services that often require financing. Whether you choose veneers, teeth whitening, or direct bonding, you can quickly watch your smile and overall aesthetics improve.
• Dental Crowns & Bridges – Your dental insurance will likely help pay for a portion of your restorative dentistry needs; however, you will be required to pay the remaining balance after filing a claim. This “free” money can help with any leftover balance, reducing your need to pull from savings while moving forward with a procedure that will help to strengthen a weakened tooth or eliminate a gap in your smile.
• Dental Implants – Although $1,400 will unlikely cover the entire cost of dental implants, it can certainly help bring down the out-of-pocket expenses you’ll be expected to pay. With dental implants, you can replace your missing teeth and enjoy greater stability, functionality, jawbone preservation, and a longer-lasting smile.
• Invisalign – Orthodontic work can be costly, and depending on your dental insurance company, they may or may not offer coverage for braces or Invisalign. With the help of your stimulus money, you can begin treatment with clear aligners and watch as your teeth and/or bite more into more perfect alignment.

The Importance of Good Oral Health

While you may be tempted to use your stimulus money on non-essential items and luxuries, why not use it to take charge of your oral health? Your smile is the first thing people notice about you. It is also highly vulnerable to decay and disease, both of which can negatively impact your body. No matter if you desire to eliminate stains, close minor gaps, or treat severely damaged teeth, the decision to use your stimulus money toward dental treatments is a worthwhile investment in your oral and overall health.

If you’re unsure how best to use your $1,400 check, don’t be afraid to reach out to a member of your dental team to inquire. They can discuss necessary or elective treatments that will benefit you and your smile.

About the Author
Dr. James Gray has been practicing dentistry for more than 30 years. Earning a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Texas, he went on to graduate from the University of Texas Dental School at San Antonio. Dr. Gray and his team provide the highest quality care for patients of all ages, and with the use of state-of-the-art equipment, they make it their promise to offer beneficial treatments that meet you and your family’s dental needs. If you are looking for ways to improve the health and look of your smile, visit our website or call (817) 460-4131.