FAQs
We have prepared this list of answers to the most commonly asked questions about our clinic.
Administrative/Patient FAQs
Q. What do I need for my first visit?
A. We will need your driver’s license, insurance card, and a list of any medications you be taking, including over-the-counter medications. If you have been instructed in the past to take antibiotics before any dental procedure, please call us to verify if it will be necessary for your initial visit.
Q. Can I get my teeth cleaned on the first visit?
A. Typically the answer is yes if you have been keeping up with a dentist recommended regular cleaning schedule (usually every 6 months). However all cleanings (or dental prophylaxis) are diagnosed during the initial exam and if there is indications of gum disease a different type of cleaning may be recommended and, depending on the schedule of the doctor, may need to be scheduled on another day.
Q. What payment options are offered at Avalon Dental?
A. In order to expedite your check-out time, we ask for pre-payment at the time of appointment for the dental care scheduled that day. We also offer a monthly payment plan of up to 18 months, interest-free, through a third party health card.
Q. What does PPO or "in-network" mean?
A. PPO stands for Preferred Provider Organization, and simply means the dentist has made an agreement with the insurance company to charge a reduced fee for certain procedures. "In-Network" describes a dentist that has agreed to the fee contract or "fee-schedule" set forth by the insurance company for its members. An "in-network" dentist is not allowed to charge fees higher than those set in the fee schedule.
Q. What can I do to shorten the waiting time during my visits?
A. Please have all your information available or simply print out our new patient form and complete it at your convenience before your initial visit. If you know you have any medical conditions that may delay treatment such as, a heart murmur, diabetes, or high blood pressure, it may be advisable to obtain a medical release from your physician stating it is ok for you to receive dental treatment.
Q. Will I need to file paperwork to my insurance company?
A. It is our pleasure to file any insurance claims associated with our service directly to your insurance carrier. You will then receive a mailing from your insurance company stating the items claimed. Typically this is not a bill but merely a way for you to verify claims were made by us accurately. Please feel free to speak to our staff to answer any insurance questions you may have.
