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Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I visit the dentist?

Though it varies from patient to patient, we recommend all patients go to their dentist for a regular teeth cleaning and check-up at least twice per year. Some patients, depending on their dental needs and any issues that may arise, may require more frequent visits. Things like smoking, diabetes and gum disease can put patients in this “higher risk” category and necessitate more frequent visits to the dentist. Another reason you may need to see the dentist more frequently is if you are undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Why are annual dental check-ups necessary?

Routine dental exams help you keep your teeth healthy and beautiful. You can’t always see or feel dental problems as they are happening. Coming in twice a year allows the dentist to find and treat any issues before they have the chance to grow into something more serious.

What options do I have to change the look of my teeth and smile?

There are several different options available to change the shape of teeth, make teeth look longer, close spaces between teeth or repair chipped or cracked teeth. Among the options are bonding, crowns, veneers and re-contouring. Each of these options differ with regard to cost, durability, “chair time” necessary to complete the procedure, stain resistant qualities, and best cosmetic approach to resolving a specific problem. Visit any of our locations to consult a dentist about the best option for you.

How do I know if I’m a candidate for dental implants?

Dental implants are a permanent option for restoring damaged or missing teeth. However, because dental implants are embedded into the jawbone, a patient must have adequate bone in order to support the implant. If adequate bone is not available, bone grafting is an option. However, most patients can receive dental implants without problems. Schedule a consultation for dental implants for an evaluation of your unique situation.

What options do I have for professional-grade teeth whitening?

We offer several options to help patients brighten their smiles. For those patients wanting the fastest and most effective way to whiten teeth, we offer in-office teeth whitening services at all our locations, which takes between one to two hours and utilizes a light source to accelerate the effects of our whitening gel. We also offer take-home whitening trays so you can use them in the convenience of your own home whenever you would like. We’ll custom-fit your trays to your mouth to ensure they fit your teeth perfectly.

Are you open on Fridays?

For the convenience of our patients, our Appling location is open on Fridays from 8:00 am until 2:00 pm. Contact our staff to book your appointment today!

Why are dental x-rays necessary and how safe are dental x-rays?

Dental x-rays allow us to examine the growth and development of your teeth in ways that aren’t visible during a regular dental exam. X-rays can also assist in detecting any new cavities and in determining your gum health.

At Bellano Dental Health, we only take necessary dental films and we only use digital x-rays which significantly reduces radiation exposure compared to traditional x-rays.

Notes:
According to the American Dental Association, radiation exposure associated with dentistry represents a minor contribution to the total exposure from all sources. The National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) has estimated that the mean effective radiation dose from all sources in the U.S. is 6.2 millisieverts (mSv) per year, with about half of this dose (i.e., 3.1 mSv) from natural sources (e.g., soil, radon) and about 3.1 mSv from man-made sources. Nearly half of the man-made radiation exposure is related to CT scanning. Dental radiographs account for approximately 2.5 percent of the effective dose received from medical radiographs and fluoroscopies. (source: https://www.ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/x-rays)


Do you “take” my insurance?

We are a Preferred Provider (PPO) for a number of insurance companies. As a courtesy, we will file any insurance on your behalf.

Most PPO dentists who “take” your dental insurance accept the exact same fee for service. The insurance companies pay the doctors a set amount. When applicable, the patient pays a set amount. It is important for you to select a dentist and a dental office that meets your personal needs. When you have insurance, you often pay the same price no matter which PPO office you select. Choose a dentist and a dental office that provides top quality care where you feel most comfortable.

Why aren’t you a preferred provider (PPO) for my insurance?

Unfortunately, some insurance companies do not pay dental providers enough to cover labor for a procedure and the cost of materials. If it is difficult to find a doctor that “takes” your insurance, your plan may not provide adequate reimbursement to allow for a high-quality standard of care.

What does PPO mean?

PPO means Preferred Provider Organization. Dentists sign a contract with insurance companies that states they will accept a certain fee for each service performed. For example, a doctor may say a procedure costs $200, but the insurance company says it’s going to pay $150 for it. Dentists who are PPOs or “in-network,” accept this discounted fee in exchange for being listed as a PPO for that insurance company.

Why do I have out of pocket expenses, if I have insurance?

Dental insurance offsets the cost of treatment, but does not pay for the entire procedure. On average, dental insurance covers 80-100% of preventative (cleaning, exam and x-rays), up to 80% of restorative (minor fillings), and up to 50% of major work (crowns and bridges). We do our best to estimate your portion of the payment before you leave our office.

Why is a procedure not covered and would a covered procedure work the same?

Our doctors diagnose and provide treatment based on your needs, not based on what your insurance covers. Some necessary treatments are excluded by insurance companies or employers to reduce the cost of treatment. Ask us if you are having trouble affording your dental care. We offer financing options. If the procedure allows, we can sometimes spread out treatment a little to help make it more affordable.

What is the Bellano Dental Savings Plan?

Our exclusive Bellano Dental Savings Plan provides our patients with the opportunity to receive exceptional dental care without the frustration of dealing with dental insurance.

What are the benefits of the Bellano Dental Savings Plan?

The benefits of our Savings Plan include no restrictions on getting immediate treatment for pre-existing or expensive procedures and no annual limit on how often you can use your plan to save at our offices.

Who should consider joining the Bellano Dental Savings Plan?

If you currently do not have dental insurance, or if your employer is considering dropping your dental coverage, this is a great solution!

Is the Bellano Dental Savings Plan dental insurance?

No, while often confused with insurance, our Savings Plan is not dental insurance. In fact, our Bellano Dental Savings Plan is less complicated than most dental insurance policies.

Patient Portal

To access online patient forms, make online payments, and more, you will need to reference the username and password that is emailed to new patients. If you are an existing patient, you should have an email regarding setting up your account waiting for you. If not, please call your preferred Bellano office, and we will be happy to assist you!