We all know how important it is to make routine trips to the doctor’s office, but many of us forgo going to the dentist each year. In fact, more than three million people in the United States alone has some type of dental work that is needed. A lot of these people don’t have the work done because they either fear going to the dentist or they don’t have the money to get their work completed. By visiting the right dentist Fort Collins CO professional, you’ll be on your way to having a beautiful smile that you can feel proud to show off. 

When to Visit a Dentist 

It’s recommended that you visit a dentist twice a year for bi-annual cleanings. You will have x-rays and an exam done at these appointments as well, and this will alert both you and the dentist if you need additional work done. By visiting the dentist more often, they will be able to catch problems before they’re able to get worse. For example, that simple, small filling can be filled, but if it is left untreated for years, it’ll eventually need a root canal and crown. 

Who to Choose 

Because there are so many dentists available, it can be maddening to try to figure out which expert is best fit for your needs. After all, if you’re nervous about visiting the dental office to begin with, you want to know that the dentist is trained, reliable and will do the work without making it scary. Online reviews can give you some insight into other patient’s experiences, but you’ll also want to call around and see who can take you on as a new patient. Some dentists will be more than willing to take you on as a patient and have an appointment available the next day and others either aren’t taking any new patients or they have a long wait list to get in. 

What to Expect at Your First Visit 

At your first dental appointment at a new office, you’ll be given an exam, cleaning and have a full series of x-rays done. The x-rays will alert the dentist if there are any problems below the surface of the tooth and the exam will give them insight into any decay or issues on the surface. The cleaning is necessary to get rid of calculus, which is a white hardened plaque that forms on the teeth despite regular brushing. You will be expected to pay for all these services unless the dentist offers them for free or for a smaller fee. 

Additional Work and Insurance 

It’s important to go to a dentist who also takes your insurance coverage because this will lessen the amount of money you’ll wind up paying. The average crown costs roughly $1,000, and without insurance, you’ll be responsible for paying this entire amount. If you do not have insurance, look for a dental office that offers payment plans and financing for more major work.