Question: I am unsure if I have a cavity in one of my back teeth. Sometimes, it hurts when I drink or eat something too cold. I’ve not been to the dentist in many years, mostly due to cost issues. How do you get cavities, and how can a dentist know if I have one that needs fixing? If I do have a cavity, must I fix it, or can I at least wait until I can better afford to get it fixed? Would it be worth the cost of getting dental insurance first? I don’t see myself going to the dentist much unless I have to, so paying out of pocket might be better than paying more for dental insurance.

Reply: A dental cavity, also known as tooth decay, occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that attack the tooth’s enamel, forming a hole.   

Dental cavities, or tooth decay, are a result of a complex interplay of factors. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, is a key player. It builds up on your teeth and the bacteria it harbors produce acids that can gradually wear down the enamel, leading to small holes or cavities. Consuming sugary and starchy foods and drinks can contribute to this process. However, regular dental check-ups and cleanings are not just about cleaning your teeth; they are essential for early detection and treatment of cavities, providing you with the necessary information to maintain your dental health and can significantly reduce the risk of developing them.

A dentist can identify the presence of a dental cavity through various methods during a dental examination. They may visually inspect your teeth for signs of decay, such as discoloration or visible pits or holes. Additionally, they might use a dental instrument to check for soft spots on the enamel, which could indicate the presence of a cavity. X-rays can also detect cavities between teeth or beneath the surface. Furthermore, special dyes or lasers may help identify areas of decay that are not easily visible to the naked eye. If a cavity is suspected, the dentist may recommend further evaluation or treatment to address the issue.

Treating a dental cavity is crucial. If left untreated, it can lead to various complications. Cavities can cause pain and discomfort; if the decay reaches the tooth’s inner pulp, it can lead to infection and abscesses. In severe cases, untreated cavities can even result in tooth loss. However, promptly treating cavities can prevent further damage to the tooth structure and restore the tooth to its normal function and appearance, bringing relief from pain and discomfort. Treating cavities can also help avoid more extensive and costly dental procedures. This underscores the importance of not delaying treatment, as the consequences of untreated cavities can be serious.

Dental Insurance

About buying dental insurance, since you have a current dental need beyond preventive care, I suggest purchasing a dental HMO plan or a dental PPO that does not have waiting periods. If you want a lower-cost dental insurance plan, start by reviewing dental HMOs, as they can be as low as $7.95 a month and still provide preventive care free to low cost. Filling costs are typically very affordable with HMO insurance plans. Dental care costs get more costly as you start to have major care such as a root canal or crown. Having dental insurance would reduce major dental care costs compared to not having insurance, making it a worthwhile investment if you anticipate needing more than just preventive care.

If your current dental provider doesn’t accept dental HMO insurance, the next best option is a dental PPO plan. However, keep in mind that there may be a waiting period for certain dental needs with a PPO plan. Choose a dental PPO plan that offers immediate benefits to ensure you have coverage for a filling without any waiting periods. Dental PPOs are more costly than HMOs, typically starting around $45.00 a month.

Remember that you are not just paying for a filling if you see a dentist without insurance. You would generally have to pay for the office visit and X-rays. The average cost of a new patient’s dental exam can be about $285.00, depending on factors like location, age, and the number of dental X-rays to be done. Whereas taking an HMO dental insurance as an example, office visits and bitewing X-rays are typically free. We have not even addressed the cost of a filling, which would also vary depending on the size of the cavity and the filling you have done.

You can shop out insurance plans and verify the cost of the plan again coverages and see if it is worth buying and having before getting your tooth taken care of. At DentalInsurancePlus.com, we can help you with dental insurance questions as we sell a broad range of plans, from HMOs to PPOs. Our member service can go over the dental insurance plan options we provide and help you choose one that will best fit your current dental care needs. Since cost is a factor, an HMO dental insurance may work for you not only for your current filling but also to help you maintain your preventive dental care services, thereby avoiding any more cavities in the future. Call our office at 310-534-3444 Monday – Friday, 8 am – 4 pm. We can provide you with a free dental insurance quote and get you started with insurance so you can afford to see a dentist.