Frequently Asked Questions
What services do you provide?
What can you do to help alleviate my anxiety about going to the dentist?
Do you know of any dental insurance that I can purchase?
Do you offer payment plans?
Do you accept my dental insurance?
We welcome many types of dental insurance plans. The "rule of thumb" is that we accept any insurance company that allows you to choose which dentist you go to. Understanding your dental insurance and which type of plan you have is important. Typically, Indemnity, DPO and PPO plans are those where you can choose your treating dentist. HMO or DHMO plans require you to be treated by a specific dentist and DO NOT give you the option of choosing your own. We have PPO contracts with several insurance companies which indicates that if your insurance is one we are contracted with, you may receive additional provider discounts.
We are happy to assist you in submitting your dental claims and make every attempt possible for you to receive the maximum benefit from your insurance carrier. However, we cannot render services on the assumption that all charges will be paid by your dental insurance. We attempt to estimate the out-of-pocket expense based on information available, but cannot guarantee what insurance companies will ultimately pay. The agreement of the dental insurance company to pay for dental care is a contract between you and the insurance company. We are considered your provider of service.
We currently are contracted as a PPO provider for MetLife, CIGNA (Connecticut General), United Concordia and SCS (Shirrell Consulting Services). These insurance companies will provide you with discounts on your out-of-pocket expenses. However, as stated above any PPO plan is welcomed in our office and WILL provide a benefit to you.
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Do you know of any dental insurance that I can purchase?
Unfortunately there are few "private purchase" plans that are beneficial for individuals. Insurance plans that are provided by an employer are typically the better plans with the most benefit. "Private purchase "plans may seem economical with regard to premiums, but the actual benefit for dental services are extremely low and in some cases they do not cover every dental treatment needed. Most of these types of plans impose waiting periods for certain treatment. A careful look into the fine print is important before purchasing this type of dental insurance.
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Do you offer payment plans?
Payment for services is expected at the time the service is rendered. We accept cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express. We do, however, offer the option of Care Credit (www.carecredit.com) which provides you with convenient repayment options and allows you to pay for the services over a period of time. There are several options available, including "no interest" options for up to 12 months as well as extended options up to 60 months with a low interest rate. It is relatively easy to apply with an instant approval process. You can either apply at home via the Internet, or we can help you apply in the office.
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What can you do to help alleviate my anxiety about going to the dentist?
As we work with you, we understand that you may have had prior unfortunate dental experiences. We will treat you with compassion and care and attempt to alleviate the anxiety. Some individuals require additional help such as prescription anti—anxiety medication (Valium) or nitrous oxide sedation during dental treatment. In more severe cases, we can offer Sleep Dentistry. (see also "Sleep Dentistry" tab)
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What will happen my first visit?
The first visit usually consists of a comprehensive oral examination, including a periodontal evaluation to check for gum disease, oral cancer screening and necessary x-rays. We then schedule you to come back for a cleaning and restorative treatment needed.
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What services do you provide?
We provide all phases of general and cosmetic dentistry for your entire family. This includes oral surgery, periodontics (gum treatments), endodontics (root canals), dentures, crowns, bridges, veneers and tooth whitening. For information about specific procedures go to www.ada.org/public/topics/alpha.asp. We also provide the new “mini implants” for full and partial denture stabilization. For more information on this kind of implant, please visit the IMTEC website
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