If I get an affordable dentist does that mean the service will be substandard?

Can you give me some advice on an affordable dentist? We have a family of 6 and no dental insurance. My husband’s job provides medical insurance only and our 22 year old daughter has had a toothache for about 2 months now. We know she needs a root canal but we want it done right. And we don’t want a dentist who is just going to insist on pulling the tooth because we don’t have insurance. I have already been to an affordable dentist who I thought was disrespectful when I needed 2 dental fillings. They didn’t overcharge me. I just don’t like the way I was treated and now one of the fillings is getting loose. Now I’m wondering if some steps were left out and I got a substandard filling. I’m really concerned about my daughter now. I want a dentist who is affordable and will do a good job on her tooth. Am I asking for too much? Thanks. Sara T.

Sara – You’re not asking for too much. You can find an affordable dentist who gives quality care. Although you can ask for quotes by phone, you have to know what services each quote includes so you can make a good comparison. An estimate might give you an idea of each dentist’s fees, though.

A dentist’s fees vary based on the dentist’s skill, location, and the quality of materials used. Sometimes super-low rates involve using cheaper materials and shortcuts in procedures. If the cost for your daughter’s root canal treatment is significantly lower than other dentists in the area, it might not be a high-quality procedure. If shoddy work is done on her tooth, the root canal will need to be repeated, and she might lose the tooth altogether.

Select a few high-quality dentists. Ask friends for recommendations. Ask each dental office what is done to provide affordable care to patients who don’t have dental insurance. Payment plans or financing might be an option to help your family get affordable dental care.

This post is sponsored by Plano, TX dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.