Think dental insurance is too expensive?
In some cases, you might evenget paidfor your dental procedure.
Id always paid out-of-pocket for dental care, until I started graduate school at New York University.
During my first cleaning in almost two years, I found out I had not one, butthreecavities.
At first I was hesitant.
Did I really want a dentist-in-training drilling holes in my teeth?
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
Ask one of these companies to help…
But then I was assured the student would be overseen by several dentists, doctors and faculty members.
My Experience at a Student Dental Clinic
Getting to the college on exam day was a breeze.
I didnt have to walk a mile to the subway station and ride the always crowded 6 train downtown.
Instead, I just hailed a cab and was there in less than 10 minutes.
Check-in was fairly straightforward.
My student dentist was very sweet, gentle and patient.
She even gave me a hug and a thank you card after the exam.
The check inside the card certainly sweetened the experience.
It only took a little courage and three hours of my time to be cavity-free and $150 richer.
Now, before you get too excited, I have to explain how this was partly due to luck.
There are two reasons I was paid to have my cavities filled.
First, I already had insurance that wouldve covered the procedure.
Second, I had the specific kind of cavity students need to perform their exam on.
I never thought Id say I was lucky to have a cavity!
Student Dental Clinic vs.
Private Practice
Student clinics are a win-win situation.
They provide patients with high-quality care at reduced fees, while providing students with practical clinical experience.
Dental clinics are where students train to become dentists, and provide both preventive care and treatment.
Dental hygiene clinics only provide preventive care, but tend to be less expensive some are even free!
Student clinics are typically 30%-70% less than private practices.
The NYU College of Dentistry student clinic is only $75 42% less!
Keep in mind, treatment at a clinic is a little different than at a private practice.
Check outthis postfor more ways to save on dental care!
Search theAmerican Dental Association(ADA) website or call yourstate dental societyto find a dental program near you.
Fees:Initial screening appointment fee $95.
Treatment fees are 40% less than at a private practice.
Fees:Initial examination fee $174.
Treatment fees are 30% less than at a private practice.
After the screening appointment, youll be contacted to schedule necessary treatment appointments.
Fees:The screening fee is $13.
Pre-doctoral clinic fees are 68% less* than private practices.
*According to a comparison with prices listed in the National Dental Advisory Service 2014 Comprehensive Fee Report.
The app will arrive in the mail within 10 days and must be returned by mail.
If youre accepted, youll be assigned to a dental student and scheduled for treatment.
Fees:No screening appointment fee.
X-rays $80-$160.
Treatment fees are one-third of those in private practice.
Fees:Screening appointment and X-rays are free.
The initial comprehensive exam is $77.
Necessary additional x-rays at comprehensive exams cost up to $70.
Treatment fees are 40% less than a private practice.
Example: Composite filling $70-150.
When you log into your bank account, how do your savings look?
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
