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Preventive Dentistry
Dental insurance companies use several factors to determine their "allowed" or "approved" payments for procedures, which often differ from the actual fee charged by West Augusta Dental Associates or other dental practices.
Insurance companies typically create a fee schedule based on what they consider "usual, customary, and reasonable" (UCR) charges for dental procedures in our Augusta, GA, region. These UCR rates are calculated using data collected from various practices, often averaged, and then adjusted downward. The insurance company calculates your benefits using this internal fee schedule, not our actual fees.
Understanding Network Dental Coverage
For in-network providers, these allowed amounts are contractually agreed upon. Since West Augusta Dental Associates is out-of-network with many plans, there's often a difference between our actual fee and what your insurance considers their allowed amount.
Your specific plan details also influence payment calculations. Plans vary in coverage percentages (typically 50-100 percent, depending on the procedure category), annual maximums, deductibles, waiting periods, and exclusions. These factors affect the final amount your insurance will pay.
Our team works diligently to help estimate your insurance coverage before treatment, but these are always estimates since insurance companies don't guarantee payment until claims are processed.
Contact Our Augusta, GA, Dental Office
If you have questions about how your specific plan calculates payments or need help understanding your benefits, please contact us at (706) 738-8070. We're committed to helping you maximize your insurance benefits while receiving the quality dental care you deserve.
The quick answer is that healthy patients can visit their dentist every six months for exams and dental cleanings in Augusta, GA. However, patients who are managing gum disease may need additional teeth cleanings throughout the year to successfully control their condition.
So the true answer is that your hygiene schedule is highly personalized, and our dentists will tailor it to your unique needs.
Understanding Gum Disease
There is no cure for advanced gum disease (periodontitis), so it's essential to stay on top of your dental health with routine preventive teeth cleanings and exams every six months. During these visits, our dentists screen for concerns like gum disease and tooth decay, so we can often help you detect problems early on before they become more significant concerns.
Gingivitis, or early gum disease, can often be reversed if we spot it early and you are proactive about making the necessary changes to your home care routine.
Protecting your smile against gum disease also protects your overall health and well-being since it's closely linked with non-dental concerns like:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Dementia
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
Gum disease is also linked with pregnancy complications, such as low birth weights and pregnancy diabetes.
Contact us at (706) 738-8070 if it's time for your next teeth cleaning and dental exam in Augusta, GA.