Healthcare Costs Are Rising Nationwide: Why Preventive Dental Care Matters More Than Ever

January 30, 2026
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Posted By: Dr. Laura Geiger

Rising healthcare costs are making it increasingly difficult to find quality care at a reasonable price. Research shows that there are numerous reasons why Americans are paying more to go to the doctor; whether it’s expiring tax credits from the Affordable Care Act, increased costs for services, or higher premiums for employers, the struggle is real.

And even though most Americans have access to dental coverage, their insurance usually only covers a portion of their treatment, except for preventive care, making routine visits matter more than ever.

The Importance of Preventive Dental Care

Most dental insurance plans cover two preventive dental visits per calendar year; these visits often include a professional cleaning, a comprehensive exam, an oral cancer screening, and a set of x-rays.

There are numerous benefits to these routine visits, including the following:

  • Cost savings — When you visit our office every six months, it gives us the chance to prevent serious dental issues and save you money on complex procedures. And if you don’t have insurance, we offer a dental membership plan that includes preventive care.
  • Early detection — Routine preventive visits help us identify any dental issues, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or oral cancer, before they worsen and require more invasive and costly treatment.
  • Oral hygiene — During your preventive visits, we remove the stubborn plaque and tartar your toothbrush can’t and offer helpful tips on brushing and flossing at home. This can reduce your risk of tooth decay.
  • Better overall health — Because your oral health is directly linked to your overall health, regular dental care can decrease your risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and more.
  • Improved confidence — You’ll leave our office with fresher breath and a brighter smile, giving your self-esteem a boost and making you look forward to socializing with friends and family.

Need to Schedule an Appointment in Indianapolis, IN?

If it’s been more than six months since your last routine exam and cleaning, please feel free to reach out to our dental team! At Southeast Family Dental, we strive to help every patient achieve a healthy, beautiful smile they’ll be proud to show others.

To take the first step, just give us a call at (317) 359-8000.