As the cost of living rises, everything from our food to our other everyday essentials is more expensive. That includes oral health care products. But you can still protect your smile and save money on oral health care. Here’s how.

Shop Smart

Rather than buying oral healthcare products at convenience stores where they are likely to be more expensive, buy them from a supermarket, discount store, or drugstore. Check out deals, discounts, and multibuy offers.  Make sure you do the maths though so you can be sure you’re getting a good deal.

Stick to a Good Oral Care Routine

This is one of the easiest ways to save money on oral health care. Looking after your teeth and gums reduces the need for expensive dental treatment. To keep your mouth healthy:

Brush your teeth twice each day

Floss once per day

Use mouthwash

Visit your dentist regularly for check ups

Use a tooth cleaner at home in between dentist visits

Eat Well to Protect Your Teeth

Foods that contain a lot of calcium and phosphate are good for teeth because they help to protect and repair tooth enamel. Good foods for your teeth include cheese, milk, and nuts. Sugary and acidic food and drinks such as soda, candy, red wine, and soy sauce are bad for your teeth because they erode your tooth enamel over time. If you eat or drink too many sugary or acidic things, you’ll end up needing more expensive dental treatment in the long-run.

Save Money On Oral Care With Dental Insurance

Most dental insurance plans will cover preventative treatment like dental cleaning and x-rays to diagnose underlying issues. If you keep your appointments, you’ll be able to avoid more expensive and painful dental treatment in the future.

Ask Your Dentist About A Payment Plan

Been told you need dental treatment and your insurance doesn’t cover it? Or what about if you don’t have insurance? Ask your dentist if they offer payment plans to make your essential oral health care treatment affordable.

Ask About Free Or Low-Cost Dental Treatment For You And Your Children

If you’re on a low income, unemployed, or uninsured, you may be able to access free or low cost dental treatment.

If you’re in the US, Medicaid may pay for your dental treatment in some states such as Washington. Check the rules where you live.

For children, CHIP the Children’s Health Insurance Program covers dental treatment for eligible children up to the age of 19. Provision varies from state to state, so check the rules where you live.

So there you have it, it is possible to save money on oral health care in these tough times. Every little helps to protect your smile!