A dental indemnity insurance plan pays the dental office (dentist) on a traditional fee-for-service basis. The insurance company usually pays 50% – 80% of the dental office (dentist) fees for a covered procedure; the remaining percentage – the insured pays. These plans often have a predetermined or set deductible amount, which varies from plan to plan. Indemnity plans can also limit the number of services covered within a given year, and dentists can be paid based on various UCR fee schedules. Some typical features of these plans:

Plan Deductibles:

Indemnity dental insurance plans generally require the payment of a deductible before coverage begins. However, well-designed plans do not apply the deductible to preventive services. The average deductible is around $25 – $50 per person per year, while for families, it may be something like $150 max per year. For example, if the plan has a $50 deductible per person, and a family of four is insured under the plan, if the plan has a maximum deductible of $150 per year after three family members pay their deductible in the same year, the fourth member would not have a deductible for that given year.

Waiting/Probationary Periods:

A waiting period is a set amount of time before you can receive coverage for specific dental services under your insurance plan. During this period, you are not eligible for coverage for the particular services subject to the waiting period.

Insurance companies implement waiting periods to control their costs. They want to ensure they don’t have to pay for expensive procedures that people might sign up for only after finding out they need them. With a waiting period, insurance companies can limit the risk of people taking advantage of the system.

Waiting periods vary depending on the insurance company and the specific plan. Some plans may have no waiting periods, while others may have waiting periods of up to a year or more. It’s essential to read the terms of your insurance plan carefully to understand what services are subject to a waiting period and how long that period is.

Maximum Limitation:  

The maximum limitation is how much a dental insurance plan will pay for dental services annually. The maximum limitation varies depending on the specific plan and insurance company. Generally, the maximum limitation for dental indemnity plans is between $1,000 and $2,500 per person per year. 

Dental indemnity plans have maximum limitations to control costs for the insurance company and the insured. Dental services can be expensive, and without a maximum limitation, the insurance company could pay a lot of money for a single person’s dental treatment. The maximum limitation ensures that the insurance company does not have to pay more than a certain amount for dental services for each individual. 

It’s important to note that if an individual reaches their maximum limitation for the year, they will be responsible for paying for any additional dental services they need out of their pocket.

Choosing Your Dentist:

One of the most significant benefits of an indemnity dental insurance plan is that there is no network of dentists. You have the freedom to choose any dentist you desire, and there are no limitations to a specific group of dentists you can select from. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for people who live in rural areas or who have established a long-term relationship with a specific dentist.

For instance, suppose you move to a new city and would like to continue seeing your current dentist. In that case, an indemnity dental insurance plan would be an excellent option, as you can choose your dentist without worrying about whether they are in-network. Additionally, suppose you have a family dentist caring for your family’s dental health for years. In that case, you can continue to visit them even if they are not part of the insurance company’s network.

By having the freedom to choose your dentist, you can maintain a trusting and long-term relationship with your dentist, which can benefit your overall dental health. You can discuss your dental health concerns and goals with your dentist, and they can provide you with personalized care that meets your specific needs.

In summary, an indemnity dental insurance plan allows you to choose any dentist you want, giving you the freedom to receive care from a dentist you trust. It’s an excellent option for people who value the flexibility to choose their dentist and maintain a long-term relationship.

Average Cost of an Indemnity Dental Plan

While it’s true that indemnity dental insurance plans can be more costly than other types of plans, they offer a significant advantage in terms of flexibility. With an indemnity plan, you can choose any dentist you want, and you won’t be restricted to a particular network of dentists. This means you can maintain a long-term relationship with your current dentist, even if they are not in the insurance company’s network. Additionally, indemnity plans typically have higher annual maximums than other plans, which can be beneficial if you need extensive dental work. Finally, indemnity plans may cover a broader range of dental services than other plans, such as cosmetic procedures. Ultimately, whether an indemnity dental insurance plan is a good option depends on your needs and preferences.

State Insurance Departments regulate Companies Selling Indemnity Plans:

The regulation of dental insurance and indemnity plans by state insurance means that these plans are subject to state laws and regulations regarding insurance coverage. This includes requirements for coverage, premium rates, and other terms and conditions of the plan. This regulation aims to protect consumers from unfair practices by insurance companies and ensure they receive appropriate coverage for their dental care needs. The specific rules may vary from state to state, but they generally aim to provide a fair and transparent insurance market for dental care.

Glossary of Dental Insurance Terms 

Dental insurance plans can be complex and challenging to understand. Indemnity plans are one type of dental insurance that allows you to choose any dentist you want. However, it is essential to understand your plan’s various terms and conditions to make informed decisions about your dental care. We will break down some of the standard terms you see in a dental indemnity insurance plan.

1) UCR Fees: UCR stands for “Usual, Customary, and Reasonable.” Insurance companies use UCR fee schedules to determine how much they will reimburse for a dental procedure. The UCR fee is the maximum amount an insurance company will pay for a particular dental service in a specific geographic area. For example, if a dental procedure costs $200, but the UCR fee in that area is $150, the insurance company will only reimburse the dentist $150. 

Under dental indemnity plans, dentists can be paid based on various UCR fee schedules. This means that the reimbursement a dentist receives from the insurance company can vary depending on the UCR fee schedule used by the insurance company. It’s important to note that UCR fees are determined by the insurance company and not the dentist, and they can vary widely depending on the geographic location and the specific plan. 

UCR fee schedules can affect payment for dental services under indemnity plans because they limit the amount the insurance company will reimburse for a particular service. If the UCR fee for a specific service is significantly lower than the amount the dentist charges, the patient may be responsible for paying the difference out of pocket. However, if the UCR fee is higher than the amount charged by the dentist, the insurance company will only reimburse the UCR fee, and the patient will not be responsible for paying the difference.

2) Allowable Charge: Regarding dental indemnity insurance, the term “allowable charge” refers to the predetermined fee schedule as the basis for plan deductibles, coinsurance, and maximum percentage. Essentially, this is the amount that dentists are reimbursed for the services they provide, as per their agreement with the insurer. This will allow for transparency and consistency in pricing and ensure that the dentist and the patient understand the costs associated with the services rendered. It’s important to note that the allowable charge may vary depending on the specific insurance plan, so reviewing your policy details is always a good idea to understand what is covered and isn’t covered.

3) Balance Billing: Balance billing is a prevalent issue dental patients face when dealing with indemnity dental insurance plans. It refers to the difference between the total cost a dental office charges a patient for a particular dental service and the amount the patient’s insurance plan pays for that service. This difference can be substantial, leaving patients with a significant financial burden.

Indemnity dental insurance plans typically pay a percentage of the total cost of the services provided rather than a set amount. The amount of coverage a patient receives from their insurance plan can vary widely depending on the price of the service and the percentage paid by the insurance company. 

For example, suppose a patient requires a dental procedure that costs $1,000, and their insurance plan pays 50% of the cost. In that case, the insurance company will pay $500 for the procedure, and the patient will pay the remaining $500 out of pocket. However, if the dental office charges more than the insurance company deems reasonable, the patient may be responsible for paying the difference, known as balance billing.

Balance billing can be a significant financial burden for dental patients, especially if they require multiple procedures or have a limited budget. It’s essential to carefully review the terms of an indemnity dental insurance plan before enrolling to understand what percentage of the cost is covered by the insurance company and what the patient’s financial responsibility will be.

In some cases, dental offices may offer payment plans or other financial assistance options to help patients cover the cost of balance billing. Patients can also consider negotiating with their dental office to reduce the balance billing amount or seeking a different dental office offering more affordable pricing.

Balancing billing is critical for dental patients considering an indemnity dental insurance plan. By understanding the potential financial implications of this issue, patients can make informed decisions about their dental care and budget accordingly.

4) Claim Forms: Dental indemnity insurance is essential to dental care that helps patients cover their dental expenses. When a patient receives dental care, the dentist or the patient can use a claim form to submit information about the services provided. The claim form serves as a document that contains all the necessary information about the dental services rendered, including the type of treatment, the date of service, and the cost of the treatment.

The dentist is responsible for ensuring that the information in the claim form is accurate and up-to-date. It is crucial because the information in the form determines the amount the insurance company will pay for the services rendered. The insurance company will review the claim form and pay the dentist or the enrollee/beneficiary.

The insurance company accepts claim forms submitted either on paper or electronically. Since the advent of technology, electronic submission of claim forms has become more prevalent. Electronic submission of claim forms is more convenient and faster than paper-based forms. It eliminates the need for mailing, reduces the chances of errors, and speeds up the processing time.

In conclusion, the claim form is vital for dental indemnity insurance. It is used to submit information regarding the dental services provided and helps the insurance company determine the amount of payment to be made. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the information provided in the form is accurate and up-to-date.

5) Coinsurance:  When it comes to indemnity dental insurance plans, coinsurance refers to the percentage of the cost of services the patient is responsible for. The insurance company pays a portion of the cost while the patient pays the remaining amount, typically a copay or coinsurance. The percentage that the patient pays can vary depending on the specific plan and the type of service being provided. For example, a plan may cover 80% of the cost of routine cleaning, while the patient is responsible for the remaining 20%. However, for more complex procedures such as a root canal, the patient may be responsible for a higher percentage, such as 50% or more. It’s important to carefully review the terms of your indemnity dental insurance plan to understand the coinsurance requirements and any other costs associated with your coverage. Doing so lets you make informed decisions about your dental care and avoid unexpected expenses.

6) Deductible: An essential aspect of indemnity dental insurance plans is the deductible, which refers to the amount the policyholder pays out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. This deductible amount varies between plans and can range from around $25 to $50 per person per year for an individual plan, while for families, it may be something like $150 max per year. Well-designed plans typically exempt preventive services from the deductible, meaning that policyholders can receive these services without first meeting the deductible. 

For example, suppose an indemnity plan has a $50 deductible per person, and a family of four is insured under the plan. If the plan has a maximum deductible of $150 per year after three family members pay their deductible in the same year, the fourth member would not have a deductible for that given year. The deductible is crucial when choosing an indemnity dental insurance plan, as it can significantly impact the out-of-pocket expenses that policyholders will face when receiving dental services.

7) General Dentist: Regarding dental indemnity insurance plans, a general dentist offers a wide range of dental services. They are responsible for routine dental care, such as check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and extractions, as well as more complex dental procedures, such as crowns, bridges, and root canals. General dentists are trained to diagnose and treat various dental issues, including gum disease, tooth decay, and oral infections. They also educate patients on proper oral hygiene practices to maintain good dental health. In short, a general dentist is a crucial component of a dental indemnity insurance plan, providing comprehensive dental care to ensure the insured’s oral health

8) Limitations & Exclusions: When it comes to dental insurance, it’s essential to understand the limitations and exclusions of an indemnity dental plan. These refer to specific services that may not be covered under your plan and will require you to pay out of pocket if you choose to receive them. Often referred to as optional services, they can include treatments such as cosmetic procedures or orthodontics. Reviewing your plan carefully is crucial to understand which services are limited or excluded and any associated costs. Doing so lets you make an informed decision about your dental care and avoid unexpected expenses.

Considerations for Choosing a Dental Indemnity Insurance Plan

In conclusion, a dental indemnity insurance plan offers flexibility and choice when selecting a dentist. Although the plan can be more expensive than other insurance plans, it provides higher annual maximums. Before choosing an indemnity plan, it’s essential to read the plan’s terms carefully to understand the waiting periods, deductibles, and maximum limitations. This way, you can make an informed decision that meets your dental health needs and goals.

At DentalOpinions.com, we understand the importance of having dental insurance that suits your unique needs. We offer many dental insurance plans, including indemnity dental insurance. If you have any questions or want a free dental insurance quote for you or your family, please get in touch with us at 310-534-3444. Our friendly and knowledgeable team can assist you from Monday to Friday between 8 am and 4 pm. We are always happy to help you find the right insurance plan for your budget and dental care requirements.

Question: I need to find a family dental plan where we can all go to the dentist whenever we need to and pay the dental office bills after the dental insurance company pays their part before making us pay our share of the cost. Currently, we pay the dentist upfront for the total cost of our dental services and wait for the insurance company to refund us. The problem is we don’t always have the money to pay in full, which is why we got the insurance in the first place. 

Having to pay the dentist in full upfront is keeping us from going to the dentist, and at that point, I do not see spending $125.00 a month for a dental insurance plan we do not even use because we can not pay upfront for dental services. What options are left for us that would be more affordable?

Reply: Welcome! I hope you are doing well today. I want to discuss dental insurance plans and how claims are processed. I can understand why the claims process can be distressing, especially concerning how the claims get paid. Let me assure you that you are not alone. Many people have questions about dental insurance plans and how they work.

Based on what you have told me, you have either a dental PPO or an Indemnity dental insurance plan. Consider talking to your dentist if you like the plan benefits and coverages overall and if it’s just about how claims are paid. With dental PPO and Indemnity plans, the payment process and how the dentist gets paid is really up to the dental office. It does not typically come from your insurance company.

The dentist can choose to submit the claim and get paid by the insurance company before billing out any remaining balances to their patient. In the past, many dental offices processed claims that way. However, sadly, many patients would fail to pay their part, and then the dentist’s office would have to chase them down for payment. That is why numerous dental practices have resorted to charging their patients the full amount and requiring them to submit claims to their insurance company to reimburse the portion owed to them.

Some dental offices charge you what they think your part of the cost would be, based on your policy coverages, then bill or credit you depending on the outcome. However, only some dentists still do this, as it can still be an issue of fully getting paid for services already rendered.

Based on what we have discussed, it is not an issue with the insurance plan per se but more of knowing how your dentist is willing to file claims and how they expect you to pay for services. Therefore, if you are still facing issues with your dental insurance plan, you may need to change your dental office, not your dental insurance plan. I hope this information was helpful to you. If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Affordable Dental Care: Tips for Maintaining Oral Health Without Breaking the Bank

Ensuring proper dental care is essential for maintaining overall health, and avoiding necessary procedures due to cost can be detrimental. To help with the affordability of dental care, we have compiled a few suggestions that may be useful to you. Please find the tips below regarding a PPO or Indemnity dental insurance plan.

1) Find out how the dental office files a claim: Talking to the dental office about their claims process is essential in understanding what is expected of you before receiving dental services. You should find out how the dental office processes claims and what upfront cost they expect from you. 

Some dental offices may require you to pay the total cost of the dental services upfront and then submit your claim to the insurance company for reimbursement. In contrast, others may charge the insurance company directly and only bill you for the remaining balance. 

Knowing your financial obligation before receiving dental services is crucial, as this can help you budget your dental costs accordingly. Additionally, ask about any payment plans or financing options that the dental office offers to help you cover the cost of your dental services.

If you are unsatisfied with your current dental office’s claims process, consider switching to a different provider offering more favorable payment terms. Many dental offices are willing to work with their patients to find a payment plan that fits their budget, so don’t hesitate to ask about your options.

By understanding your dental office’s claims process and what is expected of you before receiving dental services, you can take control of your dental health and ensure you get the care you need without breaking the bank.

2) Payment Plan: Another option to consider is a payment plan. Some dental offices offer payment plans for patients to pay for their dental services over time. You can ask your dental office if they offer any payment plans and if they have any discounts available for paying in total upfront.

Additionally, you can inquire if the dental office will charge you based on your insurance coverage. You will be billed for adjusted differences after the insurance company pays them. By asking these questions before receiving dental services, you can budget your costs accordingly and be prepared for any financial obligations.

It’s essential to communicate with your dental office about your financial situation and any concerns you may have regarding payment. Many dental offices are willing to work with their patients to find a payment plan that suits their budget, so don’t hesitate to ask about your options.

3) Get a Cost Estimate: Dental care services can be expensive, especially if they involve complex procedures or treatments. As a responsible patient, it’s essential to know the costs involved and plan accordingly. Before undergoing any dental care service that costs more than $200.00/$300.00, requesting an estimate of coverage cost from your dental insurance company is a good idea. 

This estimate will help you understand the coverage your insurance company will pay for the service and the out-of-pocket costs you’ll be responsible for. Understanding the service’s total cost in advance can help you plan your budget accordingly and avoid any unpleasant surprises later on. 

It’s worth noting that dental insurance policies can vary widely in terms of coverage and limitations. Hence, reviewing your policy carefully and asking questions if you need clarification is essential. Also, remember that some dental services may not be covered by insurance at all, so it’s necessary to understand the total cost upfront. 

By requesting an estimate of coverage cost from your insurance company, you can make informed decisions about your dental care and avoid any unexpected bills.

4) Budget Dental Cost: Budgeting for dental care costs is an excellent way to ensure that you can afford the care you need when you need it without breaking the bank. While having dental insurance is a fantastic start towards reducing dental care costs, the cost associated with dental care may still be challenging to manage if you do not plan.

One simple way to budget dental care costs is to set aside a small amount each pay period. For example, you could set aside $20.00 each pay period or whatever amount you can afford. The key is to use that money only for dental care and avoid dipping into it for other expenses.

If you get paid twice a month and budget $20.00 per pay period, that’s $40.00 per month and $480.00 per year. If you only need preventive care in a year, which is typically free or at least under $100.00 (with insurance), continuing to save this amount will help pay for more extensive dental needs in the future. The more you can put aside each pay period, the more you will have towards larger dental care costs.

By budgeting for dental care costs ahead of time, you can feel more in control of your dental health and avoid the financial stress that can come with unexpected dental expenses. 

5) Change Dentist: If your dentist is not willing to work with you on payment options and you find it challenging to pay for dental services in full, it may be beneficial to look for a more flexible dentist. We understand that dentists need to get paid for the services provided, but not everyone can pay for those services upfront, which is why many people consider payment plans an option. 

Some dental offices offer payment plans for patients to pay for their services over time. You can ask the dental office if they have any payment plans or if they would be willing to create a payment plan that works for your budget.

Another option to consider is financing through third-party companies that specialize in dental financing. These companies work with dental offices to provide payment plans and financing options for patients who need them. Working with a financing company allows you to get the dental care you need without paying for everything upfront.

Lastly, if you do not have access to credit cards or want to avoid incurring more debt, shopping around for a dental provider that will work with your budget may be helpful. Many dentists understand that dental care can be costly and are willing to work out a payment plan that fits your needs. Finding the right dentist may take some research and effort, but it is worth it if it means getting the dental care you need.

In summary, options are available if you struggle to afford dental services. You can look for a dentist who offers payment plans or financing options or shop around for a dentist willing to work with your budget. It is essential to prioritize your dental health and get the care you need, and finding a dentist who understands your financial situation can help you do just that.

Other Alternatives for Lower-Cost Dental Care

Here are some other options that may help make your dental care cost more affordable, but they may also require you to choose a new dentist as your provider. 

1) Dental HMO Insurance Plans: Dental insurance is an excellent way to maintain good dental health while saving money. However, the cost of dental insurance can often be a barrier for many people. Fortunately, Dental HMO insurance plans can be an affordable option for those seeking dental coverage.

One of the primary benefits of an HMO dental insurance plan is that you do not have to file claims. HMO plans have already negotiated rates with the dentists in the plan network. The plan providers have a fee schedule for each covered service, which outlines the costs. Therefore, you only have to pay the reduced, negotiated prices when you receive dental services.

Another advantage of HMO dental insurance plans is that they are typically more affordable than other dental insurance plans. This is because HMO plans limit the dentists and facilities you can use to those within the plan’s network. As a result, the plan providers can negotiate lower rates with these dentists and facilities, which results in more affordable dental services.

While you may have to pay in full when you receive dental services, the negotiated prices are generally much more affordable than what you would pay without insurance. However, if you still find it challenging to pay for your dental services upfront, ask your dentist if they offer a payment plan option.

In summary, HMO dental insurance plans can be an excellent option for those seeking affordable dental coverage. With no claims to file and reduced, negotiated prices, HMO dental plans can help you stay on top of your dental health without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for a way to save money on dental services, an HMO dental insurance plan may be worth considering.

2) Dental Schools: Dental schools can be an excellent resource for saving money on dental care costs. Dental schools offer low-cost or free dental services to the public as part of their training programs for future dentists.

While it may seem daunting to receive dental services from a student rather than a licensed dentist, dental students are supervised by experienced dentists, ensuring that patients receive quality care. In fact, dental schools have some of the most advanced and up-to-date dental equipment and technology available, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable dental care.

In addition to offering basic dental services such as cleanings and fillings, dental schools also provide more specialized treatments such as root canals, crowns, and implants, all at a fraction of the cost of a traditional dental office. Patients can expect to save anywhere from 30 to 50% on dental services when visiting a dental school.

It is worth noting that dental school appointments may take longer than appointments at a traditional dental office, as the students are still learning and may take more time to complete procedures. However, this extra time is often reflected in the lower cost of services.

To find a dental school near you, you can search online or contact your local dental association for recommendations. It is also important to note that dental schools may have specific patient requirements, such as a need for certain dental services or a willingness to participate in student evaluations.

Overall, utilizing the services of a dental school can be an excellent option for individuals looking to save money on dental care costs. Not only can it provide affordable dental care, but it can also contribute to the education and training of future dentists.

Get affordable dental care with our comprehensive insurance plans – Contact us today for a free quote.

I hope that the information provided was helpful and informative. Remember, ensuring proper dental care is essential for overall health and well-being. By understanding your dental insurance plan and knowing your financial obligations before receiving dental services, you can take control of your dental health and get the care you need without breaking the bank.  

Thank you for contacting us regarding dental insurance plans and tips for affordable dental care. At DentalOpinions.com, we understand the importance of having access to affordable and comprehensive dental care. That’s why we offer a range of dental insurance plans to meet your needs.

If you have any questions about our dental insurance plans or would like a complimentary dental insurance quote for you and your family, we encourage you to call us. Our knowledgeable representatives are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to answer your questions and help you find the plan that best fits your needs and budget.

Don’t let the cost of dental care keep you from maintaining good oral health. Contact us today at 310-534-3444 to learn more about our dental insurance plans and how we can help you get the care you need at an affordable price. Thank you for considering DentalOpinions.com for your dental insurance needs.

Dental care, What can I do to stop a toothache prior to going to the dentist?  Needing helpful advise, I am in a great deal of pain due to a toothache.  It is causing me to get head and eye aches.  I can not get into the dentist any sooner then a week from now and I need help stopping this pain until I can see my dentist.  What can I do Advile is not working

I have a friend that has very yellow teeth.  The thing is she wants to go out and buy dental strips to whiten her teeth with but I told her she should see a dentist for a basic cleaning first.  My thinking is she has not been in a while and I know she must have tartar build up.

Will whitening her teeth with strips leave spots if the tartar is not removed first.  That is want I told her but really not sure.  I just think she needs to get to a dentist but I would like to know if I am right or not.

Please I have a toothache for the past three days.  I have been using Orajel but it only helps a little and for a short time period.   I need something stronger.  I do not have money to see the dentist so some advise other the going to the dentist would be helpful for me.

One of my side teeth is getting sensitive to cold.  I never had this problem before and I wondering if I could be getting a cavity.  I do not see anything off hand so I am not sure.  I have not been to the dentist in about seven months but everything was okay at that time.

Can you get a cavity that fast?  Should I go back to the dentist?  Not sure but do not want to have to spend money if it is nothing.

I really do not like to floss.  I alway do it too hard or somthing because my gums are sore afterwords.  So I know I do not floss as much as I should.  Although I have good teeth my dentist always seems to know that I am not flossing once a day.   I seen water picks that say they are better then flossing and it seems much easier to use.  What are your thoughts.

What are dental sealants?

Dental sealants are a plastic material applied to the back surfaces of the teeth to help prevent cavities.

Should children get dental sealants?

Dental sealants are important for children since they protect the top surface of the molars where pits and fissures are more prevalent and are susceptible to bacteria by getting trapped in the pits and fissures of the tooth which leads to the onset of cavities. The plastic material / dental sealant covers the top surface area of the molar. Your dentist needs to be consulted before you have any dental work done on children to ensure they are receiving the proper dental health care.

What are the costs of dental sealants?

Dental sealants cost approximately $25-$49 per tooth but this can vary depending upon the geographic area in which you live in and the type of dentist you visit.

Do dental insurance plans cover dental sealants?

Some dental insurance plans do cover a percentage of the dental sealant procedure. Coverage depends upon the type of policy you purchased, the coverage limitations, co-insurance, policy waiting periods and deductibles.

Yesterday one of my crowns came off.  My tooth does not hurt and the crown is not bent or messed up in any way.  I want to know if it is safe to just super glue the crown back on?  I am too poor to afford to go to the dentist and this country is totally screwed up as far as providing good low cost dental care to people who are in need.

I was told by my dentist that I have soft teeth which makes me more prone to getting cavities.  I am wanting to know if there is any good toothpaste/mouthwash or both that will help my teeth issues and make it so I do not get cavities.

I am really thing of going to Mexico to get some much needed dental work done.  Mexico is only less then two hours from where I live so it not a big deal going.  I was wondering if anyone had any good or bad stories about having dental work done in Mexico.

Even with my dental insurance with all the dental work I need having it done in California is just to costly for me.  However,  I hear that if  I go to  Mexico for the  dental work  it would be half the cost and I would  still get just as good dental care there as here.  I would love some tips on what to do if I go to Mexico for my dental care. Things like how to pick a good dentist there, anything on the topic really would be good to hear.

I went to a dentist about three weeks ago because my back molar  was starting to hurt me.  I have not been to a dentist in a long while so I was well beyond just going for a check up.  I was told that I should have five extractions my four wisdom teeth and the back molar that was hurting me because it could not be saved.

Wanting a second opinion since I was told I would need to go to an oral surgeon for the wisdom teeth extraction I went to a different dental office.   Where that dentist did agree that I needed to have the one bad molar removed but I did not have to have my wisdom teeth pulled in his opinion.  Which dentist is right?  Is the first dentist trying to rip me off by referring me to an oral surgeon I when I do not have to have the teeth pulled?

What is the process of having a dental crown put on?  I was told by my dentist that I have new large size cavity in a tooth that had an old filling in it.  He said that, he can do the filing but advises me to have the tooth crowned so that it protects my tooth from braking.

It is a bad tooth that I also put a small chip in it once.   I am worried that having a crown will hurt.  What does a dentist do to put a crown on?  Do I have to do anything special to take care of it?  Advise please

About a little over two years ago I had knocked out a top front top in an accident.  Not having any money I did nothing about it.  Now that I am working full time again I have some money  and would very much like to get it fixed.

Can you get a single tooth implant?  If so  by who?  I mean I know a dentist but is it a specialist or can any dentist do an implant?  My last questions is will dental insurance cover for a single tooth implant if I was to buy dental insurance now?

About a year ago I had a medium size filling done on a back molar.   Now I went to the same dentist that did the filling only to be told that I have tooth decay under the filling.   And that Now I may need a root canal and a crown done.  Which is going to cost over $1000.00

However is this not the dentist fault in the first place?  After all it is clear that he did not get all the decay out the first time when he did the filling and now it is worse and he going to charge me for his mistake.  What is up with that?  What can I do about this?

Okay so I am fourteen and I have too younger brothers.  My parents work very hard for everything and with the economy the way it is they are always worried about money.   I think that I may have a cavity starting up and I really do not want to have to tell my parents and put more stress on them over the cost of fixing it.

I notice this small brown spot on my tooth hat no matter how hard I brush or for how long it will not come off.  I really does not hurt but what if it is a cavity?  However if it is not a cavity just going to the dentist will cost money and then it would be for nothing.

I am trying to shop out dental insurance and since I have not been to the dentist a few years,  I do not have any one dentist to go to so I am shopping dental offices to.  I wondering which is better and cheaper to go to for dental care a local dental or a bigger dental office chain with many dentist in one office?

I know I do not want to pay exorbitant amount for dental  services.  The sames goes for any dental insurance plan I get.  I do not have deep pockets and I only looking for dental services and a dental plan that will keep my cost low.

I live in central Florida and I am finding it very hard to find any dentist in my area that will accept medicaid. I would like to see a dentist since it been a while since I last been to one.  Do you know how I can find who takes medicaid if anyone?  And if not can you offer some suggestions on what I can do to get low cost dental services.

My mother who is 59 needs some very low cost dental services.  I would not say her teeth are terrible but they are causing her to have some pain issues and she would really like to have them all fixed up so she looks better.  She just does not have any extra money for dental care.

I want to help her out the best I can but I too am on a tight budget between myself and my two kids I can not afford to do much.   I am hoping to find a way to get low cost dental care then between that and my helping her a little it will make it so she can afford the rest and have her teeth fixed. Any and all adivse is welcomed.

I do not go to the dentist like I should since truthfully they scare me.  I get dental insurance though my work but never used it.   I think I am able to go to any dentist but how do I know which dentist would be good?  I have a really bad toothache so I know that I need some dental work but do not know how to choose a dentist that will be understanding to a 32 year old baby.  Need advise.