Our office is located on Main Street in Lakemont Park at 166 Lakemont Park Boulevard in Altoona, Pa 16602     Directions/Map

Facts You Should Know About Dental Insurance

Dental insurance is rapidly playing a larger role in helping people obtain dental treatment.  Since we strongly feel our patients deserve the best possible dental care we can provide, and in an effort to maintain a high quality of care, we would like to share some facts about dental insurance with you.

Fact #1
You may receive a letter from your insurance company stating that dental fees are higher than usual and customary.  An insurance company surveys a geographic area, finds the average fee, and takes 90% of that fee and considers it customary.  Included in the fee survey are discount clinics which will bring down the average.  Any doctor in private practice will have fees that are considered higher than average. 

Fact #2
Dental insurance is not meant to be a PAY - ALL, it is only meant to be an aid.

Fact #3
Many plans tell their insured that they'll be covered "up to 80% or up to 100%" but do not clearly specify plan fee schedule allowance, annual maximum, or limitations.

We've found that most plans cover about 35% to 100% of major services based on the plan's pre-established maximum fee allowance which varies from carrier to carrier.

Fact #4
It has been the experience of many dentists that some insurance companies tell their insured that "fees are above the usual and customary" rather than saying "our benefits are low."

The amount your plan pays is determined by how much your employer paid for the plan.  The less he paid for the insurance, the less you'll receive.  Remember you get back what your employer puts in, less the profits of the insurance company.

Fact #5
Many routine dental services are NOT covered by insurance carriers.

Please do not be hesitant in asking us any questions about our office policies.  We want you to be comfortable in dealing with these matters and we urge you to consult us if you have any questions regarding our services and/or fees.  We will fill out and file insurance forms at no charge.  We will do all we can to assure you of maximum benefits.

If you have any questions regarding your insurance,we ask that you contact your company regarding the specifics and details of the plan it is conducting on your behalf.