(BPT) - If you've been avoiding the dentist due to budget concerns, you're not alone. Economic pressures are forcing millions of Americans to delay health care, and dental visits are often the first to go.

The ripple effect is especially pronounced in lower-income households. About half (46%) of Americans have skipped or delayed dental care due to cost, according to the ADA Health Policy Institute. This trend, though it may seem cost-effective in the short term, often leads to worsening conditions needing more complex, expensive treatment down the road. These economic realities are concerning not just for oral health, but for your overall well-being. Skipping routine dental care can have far-reaching consequences, leading to more severe oral health issues like tooth decay and gum disease, as well as missed opportunities to detect conditions such as oral cancers. Ignoring dental problems often results in greater financial, physical and emotional costs later.

Aspen Dental, a national leader in affordable tooth replacement options including implants and dentures, is stepping up to bridge the gap and address these challenges head-on.

Innovative, accessible solutions for every patient

Aspen Dental's patient-first approach is designed to alleviate the financial burdens that prevent so many from seeking care. For those without insurance, Aspen offers a savings plan with exclusive member discounts on most dental services to make essential treatments accessible and affordable. The Aspen Dental Savings Plan, combined with transparent pricing and flexible financing options, ensure patients can get the care they need without compromising on quality.

Leading the way in comprehensive tooth replacement solutions

As a recognized leader in tooth replacement, Aspen Dental provides solutions tailored to meet a wide range of needs and budgets. In addition to traditional dentures, patients at many offices have access to digital dentures, which use cutting-edge technology to ensure precise fit and quick turnaround. For those seeking permanent solutions, Aspen Dental provides dental implants that can last 25 years or longer with proper care. Also available are implant dentures, which combine the stability of implants with the affordability of traditional dentures.

Aspen Dental's network of clinicians lead the industry in incorporating the most advanced tools and technologies into their practices, from on-site labs and digital scanning to a doctor-led, state-of-the-art options for straightening teeth.

These comprehensive services demonstrate affordability and innovation can coexist, providing patients with care that is high-quality and accessible.

Addressing the dental care crisis in underserved areas

Nearly 60 million Americans currently live in areas with insufficient access to dental services, according to the Health Resources and Services Administration. This means fewer than one dentist for every 5,000 people. In many rural areas, there are none.

Limited access to dental care disproportionately affects rural regions, where nearly 34% of counties in the U.S. do not have a single dental practitioner, increasing both oral and general health disparities.

With over 1,100 locations in 46 states and 3,000 trusted dental clinicians, Aspen Dental uses its expansive reach to bring much-needed services to underserved populations. Following a mission to expand access to dental care for all, Aspen Dental's presence is felt in communities across the country that have a limited number of providers or clinics offering affordable care options.

"For many communities, Aspen Dental is the first meaningful access point to quality oral healthcare," said dentist and managing clinical director, Dr. Pamela Ellis. "Doctors across the Aspen network believe every person deserves a healthy smile, no matter their zip code, income or insurance status."

By establishing offices in rural areas and underserved urban neighborhoods and equipping them with advanced technology and state-of-the-art treatment options, Aspen Dental is breaking down barriers to care.

Why delaying dental care costs more in the long run

Economic uncertainty directly impacts people's ability to maintain their health and quality of life. Recent research from the National Association of Dental Plans shows that while preventive dental visits have remained relatively stable, many patients are avoiding non-urgent and cosmetic treatments, leading to a cascade of untreated issues over time. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also highlights how limited preventive care results in higher rates of untreated tooth decay among adults, with 1 in 4 adults aged 20-64 living with untreated dental issues.

"It's heartbreaking to see patients delay critical care due to financial pressures, especially when untreated dental issues can quickly escalate," said practice owner Dr. Whitney White. "We're here to provide solutions that fit every patient's need, so they never have to choose between their health and financial well-being."

A lifeline for affordable dental care

As many Americans face economic uncertainty, Aspen Dental provides a lifeline for millions seeking affordable and reliable oral health care. With a focus on underserved communities, innovative treatments and patient-first solutions, Aspen is bridging the gap for those who might otherwise fall through the cracks.

"The cost of care should never be a barrier to maintaining your health," White continued. "Aspen Dental is proud to be a trusted partner for patients across the country, providing care where it's needed most and helping Americans maintain their smiles even during times of economic uncertainty."

For more information about Aspen Dental's comprehensive tooth replacement solutions or to find a dentist near you, visit AspenDental.com.