FAQ

Frequently Asked Question

Q - What is a deductible?
A deductible is an amount paid by the patient that the insurance requires to be paid prior to insurance releasing payment for any dental treatment.

Q - Do you accept my insurance?
Chances are we do accept your insurance. At Artistic Works Dentistry we accept most major dental PPO plans. Call (713)64-SMILE to see if we accept your specific plan!

Q - What are your hours?
We are open from Monday to Friday and on Select Saturdays. Click here for our regular hours.

Q - Why do I need x-rays?
X-rays provide the dental professional with detailed images that assist in proper diagnosis. This diagnosis plays a major part in the creation of the patient's treatment plan that is designed to develop ultimate oral health.

Q - How much does __________ cost?
Just as every individual is unique, every dental case is unique as well. If we are unable to diagnose you over the phone, we are also unable to give you an exact cost as to your treatment, and because we believe in providing our patients with the best financial options along with the ultimate dental experience, call us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Williams for a personalized treatment plan made just for you!

Q - Why doesn't my insurance pay for this?
Insurance companies provide their customers with an annual maximum amount of dental benefits usually ranging from $1000 - $3000. However, this does not mean that the insurance will cover 100% of your treatment cost to its entirety. This annual maximum is used by the insurance to cover your dental needs at 100% - 50% of the total cost, depending on the exact service, meaning that the remaining 50% or more remains as the patients responsibility. Having a thorough understanding of the percentages of your dental benefits reduces the financial confusion and allows you to make an informed decision when choosing your insurance plan. Often times there is a need for supplemental financing with dental treatment. Ask us about our dental savers plan, third-party financing, or various alternative payment options to complete your dental treatment.

Q - How long will my appointment take?
The time required for your dental visit depends on the treatment that is being received for that particular visit. Having paperwork completed and returned to the office, insurance verified, and your punctuality are three major factors that assist us in reducing your time at Artistic Works Dentistry. If you have an upcoming appointment at Artistic Works Dentistry, please visit the following link to obtain a copy of our new patient paperwork which can be sent back to us via fax or email in order to optimize your dental visit by minimizing your wait time. Click here to access new patient form

Q - Why do you need my Social Security Number?
If you are utilizing dental insurance for your visit, a current member i.d or social security number is required to verify your benefits. This information is required two business days prior to your visit. At Artistic Works Dentistry, we strictly follow HIPAA policies and procedures. If for any reason you are uncomfortable sharing this information over the phone, you are welcome to visit us prior to your appointment to provide us with the necessary information.

Q - My previous dentist told me I do not have cavities. Why are composite fillings on my treatment plan?
At Artistic Works Dentistry we utilize an intraoral camera "so pro light" which gives us the ability to detect cavities at a very early stage. To read more about the So Pro Light Intraoral Camera click here to visit our office technology page.

Q - Will it Hurt?
At Artistic Works Dentistry we strive to provide our patients with the most pain-free, comfortable experience by utilizing cutting edge technology that reduces the discomfort and pain of most dental procedures. One is a single tooth anesthesia system which allows us to numb an isolated area without numbing the entire half of your mouth. To read more about click here to visit our office technology page.

Q - Since I am in no pain, does that mean I do not need any dental work?
Our goal is to provide every patient with optimal oral health. In order to maintain a healthy smile, it is necessary to address any dental problems before they progress and worsen. We are often questioned whether or not composite fillings are necessary if one is not experiencing any pain from an existing cavity and our answer is yes! A cavity is a form of tooth decay which worsens as time progresses, as does any other dental issue! With the progression of dental issues comes the increase in pain as well as financial cost. In order to minimize both these factors, we recommend that all patients attend to their dental needs in a timely manner. In order to detect any dental problems, we ask our patients to maintain a minimum of bi-annual cleanings exams and x-rays.

Q - I have 2 insurances, will I have any out of pocket fees?
Having dental insurance does not necessarily mean having 100% coverage for all dental treatment. Each of your two dental insurances will usually cover only a percentage of your dental treatment. In order to help you understand how insurance works, let's speak in numbers! If both the insurance plans cover 80% of a particular treatment, the first insurance will pay 80% and pass 20% to the second. The second will pay 80% of the remaining 20%. This still leaves 4% as the patients responsibility. Thus, having two insurance plans will drastically decrease your financial responsibility but it may not pay for 100% of your total dental treatment.