According to a recent survey by the American Dental Association, the number of emergency room visits in the United States related to dental issues nearly doubled from 2000 to 2010. The reasons behind this huge increase are likely related to rising health care costs, a lack of dental insurance (especially among younger adults) and the growing tendency to wait until one is in pain before seeking treatment.
The longer a patient delays treatment, the more difficult the problem will be to correct. Instead of calling your dentist at the first sign of discomfort—and having a small cavity filled—you may be facing a root canal, needed crown or even an extraction.
Of course, the best solution is always prevention: good oral hygiene, regular checkup exams with digital x-rays and teeth cleanings. If you don’t have dental insurance and don’t think you can afford regular treatment, ask Livonia Family Dental about payment plans and recommendations for affordable dental plans. Nothing is as expensive as waiting too long to address your dental health, and we’re here to help you make the best decisions.
