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Dental Care for BYU-Idaho Students: What to Know

dental treatment room with a chair, wall screen showing dental scans, & digital imaging equipment

Living in Rexburg for school often means you’re far from your hometown dentist. When a toothache hits or a cleaning is due, you need a plan. Here’s what BYU-Idaho students should know about dental care in Rexburg. You can keep your smile healthy without spending a lot.

Here’s a catch many students miss. Your school health plan does not cover dental care.

Does the BYU-Idaho plan cover dental?

BYU-Idaho asks every student to carry health insurance. Many use the Student Health Plan through DMBA. That plan pays for medical visits. It does not pay for routine dental care. The only exception is dental work you need after an accident.

You may have heard about the Discounted Dental Program. That’s a savings program, not insurance. It can lower your bill at some offices, but you still pay out of pocket. You can read the details on the BYU-Idaho Student Health Plan page.

What this means for you

So cleanings, exams, and fillings are up to you. That surprises a lot of students. The good news is that care in Rexburg doesn’t have to hurt your budget.

Why students put it off, and why that backfires

It’s easy to skip the dentist in college. You’re busy, you’re far from home, and your plan doesn’t help. But waiting has a cost. A small cavity today can grow into a root canal later. That’s more pain, more time, and more money. A quick checkup can catch trouble while it’s still small and cheap to fix.

A simple way to start

New patients at Family First Dental pay $79 for an exam plus X-rays. That flat price is the same with or without insurance. It’s an easy way to get checked without a big bill.

Need more than a checkup? We offer payment plans through Cherry and WellCredit. You can spread the cost over time. Just ask at the front desk. We also accept Delta Dental if you have private coverage.

We keep it honest too. We won’t recommend work you don’t need.

Simple ways to keep dental costs down in college

A few habits go a long way. They keep your teeth healthy and your bills low.

  • Brush twice a day and floss once. This stops most cavities before they start.
  • Don’t skip your cleaning. A small problem caught early costs far less to fix.
  • Use the $79 exam. It’s a cheap way to spot trouble and get a plan.
  • Ask about payment plans. Cherry and WellCredit let you spread out a larger bill.
  • Cut back on soda and energy drinks. Sipping them all day feeds decay.

Small steps now save you real money later. That matters on a student budget.

When should students see a dentist?

Most people should get a cleaning twice a year. Don’t wait for pain to show up. Small problems are cheaper and simpler to fix early. Our general dentistry page covers cleanings, exams, and fillings.

Getting ready to serve a mission? You’ll also need a dental exam and a signed form first. Our guide to pre-mission dental clearance walks through the form and the timeline. Give yourself time to finish any treatment before you go. If you’re leaving after the semester, book your exam a semester ahead.

We’re close to campus

If you’re looking for a dentist near BYU-Idaho, we’re just minutes from campus on East Moody Road. We also see students and families from Rigby, Sugar City, and St. Anthony. You won’t have to go far between classes.

Switching from your hometown dentist is easy. Give us the name of your old office and we’ll help request your records. Bring your insurance card too, if you have one.

Hours that fit your class schedule

We know your days are packed with classes and work. That’s why we keep flexible hours. We’re open until 7 PM on Tuesday and Thursday. We’re also open Saturday from 8 AM to 1 PM. You can come in without missing class.

What if it’s an emergency?

Chipped a tooth or stuck in pain at night? We offer same-day emergency dental care. Call us and we’ll get you seen fast. You won’t have to drive to Idaho Falls for help.

Want straighter teeth before graduation? Ask about Invisalign at your visit. It’s a clear way to fix a crooked smile while you finish school. There are no metal brackets, and most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.

What to bring to your first visit

A little prep makes your visit smooth. Bring a photo ID and your insurance card, if you have one. Bring a list of any medicines you take. Bring the name of your old dentist, if you want records sent over. You can also book online any time and fill out your forms at home.

Frequently asked questions

Does the BYU-Idaho student health plan cover dental?

No. The plan covers medical care only. Routine dental is not included, except for injury from an accident. New patients at Family First Dental pay $79 for an exam plus X-rays.

What if I don’t have dental insurance?

You can still get care. New patients pay a flat $79 for an exam and X-rays. We also offer payment plans through Cherry and WellCredit for larger treatment.

Are you open evenings or Saturdays?

Yes. We’re open until 7 PM on Tuesday and Thursday. We’re also open Saturday from 8 AM to 1 PM. Call (208) 400-9946 to book around your classes.

Can I get a checkup before my mission?

Yes. We do the exam and X-rays your mission dental form needs. Start early so there’s time for any treatment.

Ready to book?

Don’t put off your dental care while you’re in Rexburg. A quick visit now can save you pain and money later. We’ll keep it simple, clear, and friendly.

Call Family First Dental at (208) 400-9946 to book your $79 student visit. You can also book online at book.modento.io/family-first-dental. We’d love to meet you.