You want reliable dental care without draining your wallet, but pricing varies wildly and estimates can jump after the exam. Many practices advertise discounts, yet the final bill includes add-ons you didn’t plan for. Insurance portals list dozens of providers, but “in-network” doesn’t always mean low out-of-pocket costs. The result is delay, pain and higher future costs. This is the “before” state: uncertainty, inconsistent quotes and rushed choices that don’t fit your budget or treatment needs.