It’s no surprise that patients all over the country have been forced to reevaluate their idea of which expenses are necessary and which can be delayed. Unfortunately many have targeted medical expenses as non-necessary. Dr. Corbet Locke, who provides advanced dentistry in Waco, TX, cautions that maintaining your teeth and gums isn’t just an expense—it’s an investment in your future health. Neglecting your oral health can have painful, costly consequences down the road, creating a significant financial burden.
Payment Options for Dentistry in Waco, TX
In keeping with our commitment to make dental care accessible to Waco residents, Dr. Locke offers flexible payment options. We accept personal checks, cash, and credit cards. If you have dental insurance, we will gladly complete all necessary paperwork and documentation, which we will submit to your provider. For patients who do not have insurance, or who require treatment that is not covered by insurance, we offer financing and payment plans through Springstone Patient Financing and CareCredit.
Tooth Replacement Is a Worthy Investment
If missing a tooth was merely a cosmetic inconvenience, delaying treatment would be understandable. Unfortunately this is not the case, says Dr. Locke. When you lose a tooth, your remaining teeth must work harder and withstand more pressure each time you bite down. This makes the surrounding teeth more likely to become cracked or chipped, which then requires additional restorative dentistry. If the teeth shift out of place, your bite may no longer be properly aligned, and you could develop a temporomandibular joint disorder, or TMD, that makes opening your mouth a painful experience.
Ignoring Signs of Gum Disease Can Be Costly
Periodontal disease begins as gingivitis, a condition in which the gums appear red, swollen, and irritated. You may notice slight bleeding each time you brush your teeth and floss. At this stage, the gum tissue doesn’t necessarily hurt, which may explain why so many people neglect to seek treatment. Left untreated, gingivitis progresses into periodontitis, a severe infection. Plaque and bacteria accumulate near the roots of your teeth, beneath the gum line, and in small pockets between your teeth and gums. Gum tissue becomes tender, making your dental hygiene regimen a painful ordeal. Eventually, the gums recede, teeth fall out, and the jawbone slowly deteriorates. Adult tooth loss necessitates restorative dentistry and prosthetics, such as dental implants, dental bridges, or dentures.
Neglecting your teeth and gums is a costly affair. To learn more about financing, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Corbet Locke, DDS, contact our Waco, TX dentist office at (254) 776-4888. We welcome patients living in Waco, Hewitt, McGregor, Woodway, and the neighboring communities.