4 Questions To Ask A Dentist Before Your First Cleaning
So, you've just recently found a new dentist (or you're in the process of searching for one). You're looking to schedule a routine dental cleaning and exam, but you want to make sure that you've made the right choice and that you know what to expect from your first visit before you show up. By asking a few important questions, you'll be well on your way to greater peace of mind:
Do You Bill Insurance First?
If you have dental insurance, make sure that your new dentist not only accepts your insurance policy, but that they will take care of the billing for you as well. While rare, some dentists will bill the patient, even if they have insurance. From there, you'll be responsible for covering the payment until you get reimbursed by your insurance company, which could take weeks or months.
What Do You Charge for Common Procedures?
Even if you have insurance, it's a good idea to find out how much the dentist charges for common dental procedures. After all, you never know when you may face a lapse in coverage or be stuck without insurance, so you'll want to make sure the work is affordable. Specifically, find out how much is charged for cleanings, exams, X-rays, and fillings.
What Procedures Can You Perform In-Office?
Some dental offices have more specialists on-staff than others, so capabilities can vary greatly from one office to the next. Find out what your dentist's capabilities are; for example, if you're diagnosed with gum disease, will there be a dedicated periodontist available to work with you, or will you have to see an outside specialist? Should you decide to get braces, will you have access to an orthodontist or will you need to be referred elsewhere?
What if There is a Dental Emergency?
Finally, make sure you know what your options are in the event of a dental emergency. Will your dentist make arrangements for you outside of office hours if needed? Many dentists these days affiliate themselves with a local emergency dentist that's available 24 hours a day, so even if your dentist cannot see you personally, you should be able to get the referral that you need. You never know when a dental emergency could arise, so it's a good idea to be aware of this ahead of time. From there, you can enjoy greater peace of mind before you commit to a new dentist.
Contact a company like Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to learn more.
