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With the economy heading downwards and money getting tighter, more New Zealand families may be looking to cut back on dental care. A 2008 nationwide dental survey by Lumino The Dentists revealed that 69% of people would be put off getting dental work because of cost.  

However, Dr David McDonald (BDS), lead dentist at Lumino The Dentists Pitt Street, (formerly Pitt Street Family Dental Care) warns that skimping on dental care is a false economy:

‘Postponing dental work will only lead to problems becoming bigger and more expensive to fix,’ explains Dr McDonald. ‘It is vital that issues such as gum disease or a broken tooth are dealt with as soon as possible so they don’t turn into something even more serious.’

According to Dr McDonald, there are a number of things that can be done to make dental care more affordable

‘Dental problems and the cost required to resolve them can be avoided by seeing a dentist and hygienist on a regular basis,’ says Dr McDonald. ‘Looking after your teeth and mouth will also help prevent extra trips to the dentist. Brushing twice a day, flossing between teeth once a day and steering clear of sugary fruit juices and soft drinks will all mean you are less likely to develop a costly cavity.’

 ‘Finally, I would advise patients to talk to their dentist if they are concerned about cash flow. It might be possible to pay for treatment in instalments using consumer credit cards such as a Q Card or Farmers Card, which can make all the difference when times are tough.’