Scheduling and Planning for Dental Financing
Long-term dentistry always works best with a plan. So as each New Year begins, some dentists sit down with their patients and organize dental health care - in phases - for the coming year.
In the spirit of prevention, one patient might be scheduled for cleanings and periodic examinations to watch closely for developing problems, and catch them before they grow. Another patient may call for complex restoration and will visit more often; in this case, the dentist will propose treatment step by step, over time.
Prearranged care makes sense. You know what to expect from the practice, and can plan your time and dental costs accordingly. By phasing treatment, your dental fees are minimized and, in the end, you still arrive at the same finished product - a healthier you. Moreover, you'll rest assured, knowing you're getting the care you need. Because postponed dentistry inevitably means more dentistry.
For with dental insurance, tight guidelines are in place for pre-determination of coverage, submitting claims, and timely reimbursement. As treatment is planned for the year, you must monitor your benefits "bank" through the months, to be sure you're making the most out of your coverage. When year-end approaches, treatment may accelerate to take advantage of any remaining dental financing benefits before the next New Year, and a new deductible.
Everyone is different: different needs, comfort level, and financial situation. So most dentists are flexible. Insured or not, patients deserve choices. Your dentist is willing to work with you and arrive at a schedule that suits you, a schedule you'll both respect.
+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.
Dental Patient Financing
Your dentist's biggest concern is your dental health. Teeth are a priceless possession. Maintaining them should never have to take a back seat to details like dental costs or insurance coverage.
Your dentist's patient financing policy is probably pretty basic: somehow, they'll find a way that lets them perform the work you need now, rather than put it off for money reasons. Simply put, they're there to help.
As a patient, you should receive a proposed treatment plan that's right for you. You should also receive a complete description of what's needed and a dental fees estimate - so you know what, when, and how much - right from the start.
If you're covered by dental insurance, your dentist's staff will work to obtain the maximum benefit your plan allows. They may even elect to spread your treatment over two "insurance years" to expand your coverage. Every plan and patient, of course, is different.
If you're not covered by insurance your dentist can still find a way to get you the dental work you need done. Credit cards, a dental loan, and monthly payments are all dental financing options you can explore in tailoring a program that fits your dental needs.
Your dentist realizes that dental costs will always play a part in the decisions you make together. But cost alone should never prevent you from seeking the dentistry you need early on, before the problem gets worse - and more expensive.
+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.