Ryan M. Buckwalter, DDS, FICOI, FAGD

1420 Greenbrier Place
Charlottesville, VA 22901

434.973.2224

How to Care for Your Teeth without Dental Insurance

Dental care should be a priority for everyone, even those who cannot afford dental insurance. Without proper maintenance, oral health problems can undermine your overall well-being. The good news is that affordable uninsured dental care options exist and can prevent many problems. Implementing good oral hygiene, adjusting your diet, and finding low-cost dental care can keep your smile shining brightly.

Hillcrest Dental offers Piedmont, VA, residents comprehensive and accessible dental care. We understand the financial obstacles that dental care can present, so we’re happy to discuss options before your appointment. Families and individuals throughout the region rely on our general, cosmetic, and oral surgery services for healthy teeth. To learn more about our work, call (434) 973-2224 or schedule a free smile consultation today. 

Below, we discuss ways to protect your oral health even without dental insurance: 

Establish a Good Oral Hygiene Routine

Practicing oral hygiene at home is the easiest way to protect your teeth and avoid costly dentist visits. Keeping your teeth healthy requires daily effort, but the following steps can help you achieve just that: 

  • Brushing teeth twice daily using fluoride toothpaste
  • Gently brushing your tongue to remove bacteria
  • Flossing at least once daily to remove food particles
  • Using mouthwash regularly 

Following an oral hygiene routine can prevent the build-up of bacteria, which cause cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease. Moreover, caring for your teeth helps to inhibit many dental issues and their hefty price tags. 

Be Mindful of Your Diet

Taking care of your teeth also means maintaining a healthy diet. The food you eat between brushings sits on your teeth, and some foods are more harmful than others. To start, reduce the amount of sugary food and drinks you have. Excessive sugar can break down enamel and cause tooth decay.

Replace those sugary foods with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that will strengthen enamel. Moreover, switching sugary drinks for water also helps wash away food particles in your mouth and keeps you hydrated. You need not cut out all sugary food, but moderation is critical to keeping your teeth shining.

Find Low-Cost Dental Care Options

Low-cost dental coverage options are available. Depending on your income, you may qualify for public insurance programs such as Medicaid and CHIP, but these programs vary by state. Check online for specific details and ask dentistry offices whether they accept such coverage.

Additionally, you can discuss coverage options with your dentist. Some offices offer dental benefits plans or other options to save money on routine services. Exploring these routes can help you find the dental coverage you need.

Budget for Check-Ups

Even without insurance, it may be worth budgeting for the occasional dentist visit. Annual checkups catch potential tooth problems early and treat them before they worsen. Moreover, speaking honestly with your dentist can help determine which issues need immediate care. By delaying dental work that isn’t urgent, you can focus your budget on more important concerns. 

Affordable Uninsured Dental Care Services in Piedmont, VA!

Finding uninsured dental care doesn’t need to be a challenge. Piedmont, VA, residents need look no further than Hillcrest Dental for affordable tooth care. Since 1953, our team has committed to delivering personalized, patient-centered care for all budgets. Call (434) 973-2224 to learn more about our financing options and schedule an appointment!

  • "I am very pleased with how my appointment went yesterday. Everyone was really friendly. They explained everything to me about the procedure and stayed late to assure I was comfortable with the work I had done. Dr Ryan Buckwalter and his assistants were awesome. I highly recommend them for any dental work. Thank you."

    Donnette M.

  • "I was having toothache pain in my lower jaw. I called the next day to make an appointment and was given an appointment time for the very next day. I saw Dr. Ryan, who is knowledgeable, caring and has great people skills with his patients. I made another appointment to come back and have the work done."

    Denise K.

  • “Dr. Buckwalter and his assistant did a wonderful job with our 8 year old today. While they were busy talking teeth, my 3 year old was enjoying his new lip balm and balloon! Finished up with a treat from Starbucks with our gift card. So glad our kiddos don’t fear the dentist. More like they want to keep stopping in."

    Logan D.

  • “Unbelievable experience with Dr. Ryan Buckwalter. Night and Day difference from my last dental experience with another dentist. I no longer fear the dentist!”

    David S.