When a dental emergency strikes, it can be both painful and stressful. Whether it’s a sudden toothache, a broken tooth, or an injury affecting your mouth, knowing what to expect can help ease the situation.
Understanding the cost and process of emergency dental services in Calgary is essential for making informed decisions in a time of need. In this article, we will explore what constitutes a dental emergency, the factors influencing the cost of treatment, and tips on handling such situations.
How Does Dental Insurance Work?
Dental insurance pays for a percentage of your dental bill that is covered under the plan. After your treatment, your insurance company will pay for our clinic’s services through direct billing. If your insurance policy covers 90% of your dental cleaning and routine exam cost, you’ll need to pay for the 10% remaining.
Insurance policies typically limit the dollar amount of service covered. For example, if you have an annual amount of $500 for dental cleanings and routine check-ups, you are responsible for paying for additional dental cleanings once the $500 limit is reached.
At Brentwood Village Dental Clinic in Calgary, we understand that paying out-of-pocket for treatments (especially emergency dental ones) and waiting to be reimbursed by your insurance company can be stressful for some families. We want to make your experience with us as comfortable and smooth as possible, and by offering direct billing for our patients, we can help ease some of the stress.
What Constitutes a Dental Emergency?
Before diving into costs, it’s crucial to understand what situations qualify as dental emergencies. Common dental emergencies include:
- Severe toothache or pain
- Broken or chipped teeth
- Knocked-out teeth
- Lost fillings or crowns
- Abscesses or infections
- Soft tissue injuries
These situations often require immediate attention to alleviate pain, prevent further damage, and avoid more complex and costly treatments down the line. To learn about care tips when it comes to dental emergencies, read this blog.
What Influences the Cost of Emergency Dental Services in Calgary?
The cost of emergency dental services in Calgary can vary based on several factors:
- Nature of the Emergency – The type and severity of the dental issue significantly impact the cost. For example, a simple toothache may require an examination and pain relief medication. At the same time, a broken tooth might need more extensive treatment, such as bonding, a crown, or even an extraction.
- Required Treatment – Emergency treatments can range from minor procedures like fillings to more complex ones like root canals or dental surgeries. Each treatment has its own associated costs.
- Time of Service – Emergencies don’t always happen during regular business hours. Seeking treatment outside of normal working hours or during weekends and holidays can incur additional charges.
- Diagnostic Procedures – To accurately diagnose the problem, your dentist may need to perform X-rays or other diagnostic tests, which will add to the overall cost.
Emergency Dental Services in Calgary
Finding affordable emergency dental services in Calgary doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Regular check-ups can help prevent serious dental issues. Smart strategies include comparing prices among clinics and understanding how the nature of the emergency affects the overall costs. Dental insurance can also cover a substantial part of unexpected expenses. The key is to stay prepared and informed.
At Brentwood Village Dental, we offer emergency dental treatment in our fully-equipped emergency dental clinic. If you’re experiencing or suspect you have a dental emergency, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
