We are an out-of-network dental practice. That term can be confusing, so we'd like to explain what it means for you.
Being out of network does not mean you can't use your dental benefits at our office. Many dental plans include out-of-network coverage, and our team is happy to help you understand your benefits. As a courtesy, we verify your eligibility before your visit and submit claims on your behalf.
What being out of network does mean is that we have chosen not to enter into contracts with insurance companies that dictate fees, covered services, and treatment guidelines. This allows us to focus on recommending care based on your individual needs, goals, and oral health rather than the limitations of an insurance plan.
Why We Choose to Be Out of Network
Insurance plans are designed to manage benefits for large groups of people and often determine which procedures are covered and how much they will reimburse. While insurance can be a valuable resource, treatment decisions should be based on what is best for the patient.
By remaining out of network, we can focus on providing personalized care, taking the time each patient needs, and recommending treatment based on clinical judgment rather than insurance restrictions. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions about your oral health while maximizing any benefits available through your plan.
Insurance and Payment FAQs
Can I Still Use My Dental Insurance at Your Office?
Yes. Many dental Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans offer out-of-network benefits that can be used at our office. Because every plan is different, we recommend contacting us with your insurance information before your visit. Our team will verify your eligibility and provide an estimate of how your plan may apply to your treatment.
How Does Payment Work?
Payment is due at the time services are provided. As a courtesy, we will submit your claim to your insurance company on your behalf. Because insurance benefits are paid according to your individual plan, any reimbursement is typically sent directly to you by your insurance company. Prior to treatment, we will verify your benefits and provide an estimate of your anticipated coverage and out-of-pocket expense. Please note that estimates are not guarantees of payment, as final reimbursement determinations are made by your insurance carrier.
Will It Cost More Than Visiting an In-Network Office?
The answer depends on your specific insurance plan, the treatment being provided, and your available out-of-network benefits. Before treatment begins, we will review your benefits and provide a written estimate of anticipated insurance coverage and your estimated patient portion. While no dental office can guarantee exactly what an insurance company will pay, we strive to provide the most accurate information available so you can make an informed decision about your care.
What if I Don't Have Dental Insurance Benefits?
Many of our patients don't have dental insurance benefits. That's why we offer the Golden Ridge Care Program, an annual membership plan designed to provide affordable access to optimal preventative dental care that is personalized to your needs. Visit the Golden Ridge Care Program page to learn more about the plans we offer.
What if I need to spread the cost?
We work with two financing companies, Cherry and CareCredit. Both let you apply directly and, if you are approved, pay for treatment over time instead of all at once.
Two things worth being clear about. We are not the lender, and we do not decide who gets approved. The terms, including any interest, come from the finance company and not from us, so read what they send you before you accept it. We will happily point you at either application and answer questions about the treatment cost itself.
You can start a Cherry application at any time. For CareCredit, ask us at the front desk or call (303) 395-3333 and we will send you the application link.
Does being out of network affect the quality of my care?
It affects who decides what your care should be. An insurance contract does not make a dentist better or worse, but it does add a third party with its own priorities to a decision that should involve two people. We would rather keep that decision between you and your dentist.
Why does my plan describe you as "not a preferred provider"?
That is insurance language for "has not signed our contract". It is not a rating, a review, or a comment on the practice. Insurers apply the same phrase to every dentist who has not joined their network, regardless of experience or credentials.
How Do I Find Out What My Insurance Benefits Will Pay?
The best way to understand your benefits is to contact our office before your appointment. Once we receive your insurance information, we can verify your eligibility and provide an estimate of your expected coverage based on the information provided by your insurance company.
Because insurance companies make the final determination of benefits when a claim is processed, all estimates should be considered approximations rather than guarantees.
Talk to Us Before You Decide
If you have questions about using your dental benefits at our office, we're here to help. Our team can verify your eligibility, explain your out-of-network coverage, and provide estimates to help you understand your financial options before treatment begins. Call us at (303) 395-3333 to learn more.