Dental care can be expensive — especially if you don’t have insurance. Whether you need a simple filling or a full set of veneers, many patients ask: do dentists offer payment plans? The good news is, yes — many dental offices do provide financing options to help you spread out the cost of treatment.
In this guide, we’ll explain how dental payment plans work, what types are available, and how to find a dentist who offers them.
What Is a Dental Payment Plan?
A dental payment plan is a financial arrangement that allows you to pay for treatment over time instead of all at once. These plans can be offered directly by the dentist or through third-party financing companies.
Common features include:
- Monthly installments
- Low or zero interest (depending on credit)
- Flexible repayment terms
Do All Dentists Offer Payment Plans?
Not all dentists offer payment plans, but many do — especially for higher-cost procedures like:
- Dental implants
- Veneers
- Invisalign
- Root canals or crowns
Some dentists offer in-house financing, while others partner with services like CareCredit, LendingClub, or Cherry. Always ask about payment options before scheduling major dental work.
Types of Dental Financing Options
- In-House Payment Plans: Offered directly by the dentist. Often interest-free but limited in scope.
- Third-Party Financing: Companies like CareCredit or Sunbit provide payment options, usually based on credit.
- Buy Now, Pay Later Services: Flexible platforms like Cherry with no hard credit checks.
- Dental Discount Plans: Reduce the overall cost but don’t offer true financing.
Can You Get a Payment Plan Without Insurance?
Yes. You do not need dental insurance to qualify for a payment plan. In fact, many people use financing when:
- They don’t have dental insurance
- Their procedure isn’t covered (e.g., cosmetic work)
- They prefer monthly payments over large up-front costs
How to Find a Dentist That Offers Payment Plans
- Search online with terms like “dentist payment plans near me.”
- Look for a “Financing” or “Payment Options” page on dental websites.
- Call the office and ask directly.
- Use directories like CareCredit’s provider finder or Zocdoc.
Should You Use a Payment Plan for Cosmetic Dentistry?
Yes — especially since cosmetic procedures are typically not covered by insurance. Payment plans can make treatments like veneers, whitening, and Invisalign more affordable.
Pros and Cons of Dental Payment Plans
Pros:
- Makes large procedures more affordable
- Easier budgeting with fixed monthly payments
- Available with or without insurance
Cons:
- May require a credit check
- Interest or fees may apply
- Not all dentists offer them
Final Thoughts
Yes, dentists often offer payment plans — especially for patients without insurance or those undergoing expensive treatments. If you’re worried about the cost of dental care, don’t hesitate to ask your provider about available financing options.
Need affordable dental options? Check out our guide to dental insurance with no waiting period or compare veneers vs implants to explore your options.