Affordable dentistry in Tampa: smart ways to save on care

It’s no secret, and for good reason, that people in Tampa care about the cost of dental care. From Seminole Heights to South Tampa, people want dental treatments that fit a real-world budget. At Aspen Dental, we want that for our patients, too. In fact, we're here to help you see that affordable dentistry is within reach. With the right approach, you can protect your smile, promote overall health and get the care you need without breaking the bank. Here's a guide that walks you through how to lower out-of-pocket costs without skipping key treatments.

What "affordable" really means

Affordable dentistry starts with prevention. Routine hygiene services, such as cleanings and exams, cost far less than fillings or crowns. That is why building a consistent oral hygiene routine, both at home and with your Aspen Dental dentist, is one of the smartest financial moves you can make for your smile.

When treatment is needed, however, several factors can affect price: materials, lab work, the number of teeth involved, and even timing. Dr. Michael Dickerson and his team at Aspen Dental are here to ensure your preventative or restorative treatment plans are within your budget. They provide holistic treatment plans and payment solutions for any budget to ensure your dental health journey is a smooth ride from start to finish.

If you have dental insurance

At Aspen Dental in West-Central Florida, including Tampa, Clearwater and Brandon, we accept most insurance plans (please note: we do not accept Medicaid). Staying in-network, when possible, usually means lower out-of-pocket costs. Most plans cover preventive services like exams, cleanings, and routine X-rays at 100%, so take advantage of those benefits as often as your plan allows.

Keep an eye on your annual maximum. Many plans cap coverage at $1,000 and $1,500 per year. If possible, spread non-urgent care across plan years to reduce what you pay out of pocket. When you visit. Dr. Dickerson and his team bring your insurance card and a photo ID. We’ll verify your benefits and estimate your copay right at your appointment, so there are no surprises later.

No insurance? You still have options

Not having insurance doesn't mean putting off care. In fact, many Tampa patients without coverage find affordable solutions through membership plans, financing and budgeting.

The Aspen Dental Savings Plan is a membership option that covers routine care, plus includes exclusive discounts on other services. There are no waiting periods, claim forms or annual maximums. You pay a small annual fee and start saving right away. For patients who need regular cleanings and occasional fillings, this plan can be more affordable than traditional insurance.

99% of our patients are approved for financing through trusted third-party lenders with flexible monthly payments. The process is simple:

• Apply during your visit.

• Explore your options in minutes without impacting your credit.

• Once approved, choose your plan and start treatment the same day.

If you have a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you can use pre-tax dollars to cover treatments, which effectively lowers your overall cost.

Lastly, keep an eye out for limited-time promotions. Seasonal offers on both restorative and preventative services can make maintaining your smile even easier and helps make routine care even more achievable.

Membership vs. insurance: which fits you?

If you're trying to decide between dental insurance and a membership plan, here's a simple way to compare.

Choose Insurance if your employer subsidizes the premium, and you expect to need more than routine care, such as crowns, root canals or extractions.

Choose the Aspen Dental Savings Plan if insurance is not an option. For one low yearly cost, Dr. Dickerson and team will provide you with unlimited savings on both preventative and restorative care. Plus, get more peace of mind with free exams and X-rays.

Financing without stress

Worried about approval? Don't be. You can apply for third-party financing right in the office, and 99% of patients are approved. You can even start treatment that same day.

If you're able to pay down the principal early, you'll save on total interest paid over time. And be sure to keep your receipts. Many financing plans can be reimbursed if you have an HSA or FSA.

How to manage dental costs in west-central Florida, step by step

Managing dental costs starts with a clear diagnosis. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Dickerson and his team today to receive a comprehensive care plan tailored just for you. From there, work with the Aspen Dental care team to:

• Understand every step so you can make informed decisions.

• Help you prioritize your treatments based on your needs and budget.

• Explore financing and membership options that are available to you.

Never hesitate to ask about flexible financing or the Aspen Dental Savings Plan. Our goal is to make quality dental care accessible to every patient.

Common questions about affordable care

Do you accept Medicaid?

While we do accept insurance, we do not accept Medicaid. We offer flexible financing solutions and the Aspen Dental Savings plan for patients who do not use insurance.

Can I get approved for financing with fair credit?

99% of patients are approved through third-party lenders. Dr. Dickerson and his team will explain the process at your first visit.

Is a second opinion okay?

Absolutely. Bring your X-rays, or we can take new ones and review all your options together.

What if I can't pay in full today?

Ask about splitting payments or using a financing plan with monthly payments that fit your budget.

Ready to plan care on your budget?

Affordable dentistry in West-Central Florida, including Brandon, Clearwater and Tampa, isn't about cutting corners. It's about making smart choices and using every resource available. Whether you have insurance, need financing or want to explore membership options, Dr. Dickerson and his team at Aspen Dental are here to help you create a plan that works for you.

Call or schedule online today to get started.