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Seattle, WA 98101
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Insurance University, Part 2: The Challenge of Dental Insurance

May 18th, 2012

With all the variety of dental plans available, figuring out benefits can be very challenging.  Each will cover a maximum amount, more than likely have some type of deductible, and cover a specific percentage toward preventative cleanings, exams, and x-rays, basic which covers fillings, root canals, and periodontics, and lastly major which covers crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures.  If you go to a specialist or transfer from another dentist and have used some benefits, that accrues towards your overall maximum.

If you are co-insured, there is no guarantee that the secondary insurance will pick up the balance or pay any benefits towards the original claim.  Sometimes there is a clause stating there is a non duplication of benefits.  We can also do a pre-treatment estimate so we can get a better idea of what your out of pocket may be.  However, a number of factors can influence the final cost of your treatment, so this estimate is not a guarantee of coverage.  For example, insurance may not cover pre-existing conditions or limit the number of times it will pay for treatment. This could happen if it’s been recommended you have three cleanings a year, but the insurance will pay for just two.  You and your dentist will ultimately have to decide what’s best for your dental health, and this doesn’t always align with what the insurance company is willing to cover. As always, we are here to help you maintain a healthy and happy smile, so don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or recommendations.

Questions and Answers

March 10th, 2012

We are working to make our blog more interesting and relevant to you, and need your input! What topics in dentistry interest you? Do you have a question for a member of our team, a question about our office, or questions about a particular dental technology or treatment? Anything goes, so ask away! Use the comment area below, send us an email (blog@theronbaker.com), or message us on facebook. Over the coming weeks we will address those topics in our newest blog posts.

Thank you!
Dr. Baker and Staff

Breaking Bad Habits

January 18th, 2012

Good dental health requires only a few minutes of your day. Today, I thought I’d provide some practical advice on how to improve your or your smile between your dental check-ups.

Start by brushing your teeth twice a day. Proper brushing techniques are an essential part of maintaining good oral health, as well as preventing gum disease. Brushing daily helps remove decay-causing plaque from tooth surfaces. Please let me know if you would like for my team to review brushing techniques with you or your child. Flossing daily will also prevent plaque to build up between the teeth and prevent stains between your teeth. Research has shown the bacteria of gum disease have been linked to coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes and memory loss. Lastly, I encourage you to throw away old toothbrushes and replace them every 2 or 3 months, or after an illness.

If you have any further questions about any of these tips, please give me a call or ask on Facebook.

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