Financial Policy & Billing
Transparency in Your Care: Insurance & Billing
At the office of Maria A. Smith DMD, PC, we believe that financial clarity is just as important as clinical excellence.
Our dedicated administrative team is here to simplify the process of navigating your dental benefits, scheduling, and payment options so you can focus entirely on your health. Whether you are maximizing your insurance reimbursement or utilizing our flexible patient financing, we are committed to providing you with the finest care at the most reasonable cost.
Understanding Your Insurance Coverage
At the office of Maria A. Smith DMD, PC, we work with you to maximize your insurance reimbursement. However, it is important to understand how modern dental benefits work:
- Electronic Claims: We file your claims electronically after every appointment to expedite your reimbursement. Most insurance companies respond within two to four weeks.
- Information Needed: Please bring your insurance card to your first visit, or email a copy (front and back) to office@drmasmith.com in advance so we can verify your benefits early.
- Pre-Treatment Estimates: We can submit estimates to your insurer so you have a clearer idea of your out-of-pocket costs, though these often take a month or more for the insurance company to return.
- Our "Out-of-Network" Choice: We do not participate as a "preferred provider" (PPO). Managed care plans often require seeing a high volume of patients at discounted rates. Our fees are based on providing high-quality, individualized outcomes using superior materials and local CT labs.
- Patient Responsibility: Dental insurance is a contract between your employer and the insurer—designed as a "benefit" rather than full coverage. You are responsible for all fees regardless of insurance coverage.
Do you accept my dental insurance?
We accept all insurance plans and will gladly work with you to maximize your benefits. While we do not participate as a "preferred provider" in any PPO networks, we file all claims electronically on your behalf to ensure you receive your reimbursement as quickly as possible.
What happens if my insurance doesn't cover the full cost?
Dental insurance is designed as a "benefit" or assistance, rather than total coverage. Any remaining balance after your insurance has paid is your responsibility. We provide monthly statements to keep you informed of any outstanding amounts.
Do I have to pay for my first visit on the day of the appointment?
Yes. We ask that all initial appointments be paid for on the day of service. Once we have successfully verified your insurance coverage and established your benefits in our system, we can begin accepting assignment of benefits for future visits.
Do you offer monthly payment plans?
Absolutely. We offer patient financing through CareCredit, which allows you to break up the cost of treatment into manageable monthly installments. For larger treatment plans, please speak with our staff about making payment arrangements prior to starting your procedure.
Why isn't Dr. Maria a "preferred provider" for my insurance?
To provide the highest level of precision dentistry, Dr. Maria chooses to use superior materials and high-end local Connecticut labs. Managed care (PPO) plans often require dentists to see a high volume of patients and use lower-cost materials to offset discounted rates. We prioritize your long-term health and the quality of your results over volume.
Have a Financial Question?
Transparency is the cornerstone of our practice. If you have questions about your statement or insurance reimbursement, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Many times, a simple conversation can clear up any misunderstanding.