This story is part of a Seattle Times focus on the affordability crisis in the Northwest. In an occasional series of stories, we will explore the high cost of living and wealth disparities that shape our region; examine policies that impact prices for everything from housing to health care; and offer tips for making your money go further. Have a story idea? Email Deputy Business Editor Rania Oteify at roteify@seattletimes.
com . There’s no shortage of reasons why people avoid seeing the dentist. But in the Seattle area, the cost of dental care is a big one.
Take Seattle resident Leia Berry, a patient care representative for a regional cancer center. An X-ray last month revealed she needs to replace a crown and get some other work done, but she can’t afford the $1,500 out-of-pocket expense. “I have insurance, but the insurance is just like a joke,” Berry said.
“It barely covers anything except for the teeth cleanings.” So, she’s decided to put off treatment. “As sad as it sounds, until I actually have mouth pain, I honestly can’t go and get these done.
It’s not an emergency at this point.” Berry is not alone. Squeezed by Seattle-area costs of living, more people have been cutting out routine appointments and delaying needed but expensive dental work, advocates say.
Some area residents told The Seattle Times they haven’t seen a dentist in years. Some find it more affordable to travel to Mexico for dental procedures where the care, they say, is about a thi.
