I Don't Have Dental Insurance. Can I Be Seen for a Dental Emergency?

At Advanced Dentistry of Centre County, we understand that dealing with a dental emergency without insurance can be stressful, intimidating, and costly. Unfortunately, life happens, and no one can predict when accidents or sports-related injuries may cause a dental emergency. However, if you find yourself without dental insurance, don't compromise your family's oral health. Progressive practices like Advanced Dentistry of Centre County in State College, PA offer payment plans and a loyalty program so you can take care of your teeth, even in an emergency. Read on to learn more about how to deal with a dental emergency and what options you have when faced with no dental insurance to reduce stress and keep your oral health on the right track.

When should you see an emergency dentist?

If you find yourself without dental insurance, it is essential to know what may need immediate attention and what issues can wait for an office visit during regular hours. Less urgent dental concerns are generally a lost dental crown or filling, chipped or broken tooth, or sudden dull toothache. While these dental concerns are less severe, it is still vital to schedule an appointment as soon as possible with one of our dentists at Advanced Dentistry of Centre County. However, an accident or sports-related injury where a child or adult has incurred facial trauma or lost permanent teeth is a more severe issue, requiring dental emergency care. Typically, a dental emergency involves:

• Receiving immediate treatment to alleviate severe pain or swelling
• Stopping uncontrollable bleeding
• Fixing facial bone trauma
• Treating a severe infection that can be life-threatening
• Saving a knocked-out or loose permanent tooth

Can I get emergency dental care without insurance?

While it can be daunting and scary to have a dental emergency without insurance, it doesn't mean you can't take care of your oral health. Delaying a visit to the dentist only allows an oral concern or injury to develop into a more serious issue. Some non-profit centers or faith-based charities provide free dental services for those without dental insurance. Services are provided at these organizations by qualified dentists donating their time to help others who cannot afford dental care. You can also check out local dental schools if you are faced with a dental emergency or need preventive care. Licensed professors oversee current dental students completing their required hours for school, offering patients a discounted service.

Emergency dental care in State College, PA

At Advanced Dentistry of Centre County, we offer a loyalty program involving an annual fee that can cover preventive care with a dental exam every six months, one dental emergency per calendar year, and a discount on any other services rendered. We also offer payment plan options, so patients don't have to pay their dental emergency bill all at once. In the meantime, if you find yourself faced with a dental emergency, swish with warm salt water and use cold compresses to reduce swelling and irritation. If a permanent tooth has been knocked out, place it in a moist towel or glass of milk to preserve the roots and contact our dental practice immediately.

Are you without dental insurance, and concerned about your oral health?

Take care of your teeth even if you don't have dental insurance. At Advanced Dentistry of Centre County, our patient loyalty program allows for preventive dental maintenance every six months, one emergency visit a year, and discounted services on restorative or cosmetic dentistry treatments. Our main focus is your oral health, and we will work with you, even if you have no dental insurance. If you need a family dentist or have a dental concern, contact our practice in State College, PA and schedule an appointment today.