Must Haves: The Dental Connections!

At our office, we customize treatment for every patient.  Amid all of the fillings, crowns and cleanings, we find that there are three dental treatments that are most valuable when offering our patients options: dental implants, bite guards, and teeth whitening.

Dental implants are a great tool for those who have lost teeth from trauma, genetics, decay, or fracture.  They are a great investment when maintaining bone structure, chewing function and smile presentation.

In our faced-paced lives, people can take their stress and tension out on their teeth.  Clenching and grinding, called bruxism, are on the rise.  This can cause chipping to crowns, fillings and natural teeth.  Headaches, earaches and tender teeth can also be symptoms of untreated bruxism.  Although most people are unaware that they may be clenching while they are asleep, bite guards can be used to prevent the potential damage that can occur.

Finally, tooth whitening is safe and effective.  From professional in-office applications, take home custom trays, to over-the-counter strips, each is effective, though at different levels.  An easy dental consultation can determine which option is best for you!

Although each of these beneficial dental treatments can have risks, we can discuss the ways to consider your needs, and yet customize your wants to fit into the equation.  A little stability from implants, protection from a bite guard, and a brilliant smile may be just what you need to achieve your dental goals. If you have any questions, call our office at 918-455-0123!

God Bless,
DRT

An Insurance Overview: The Dental Connection!

Unless you work for an insurance company, you probably do not spend a lot of your time studying all of the terminology that dental insurance companies use to describe the treatments and services that they cover.  If it seems pretty confusing, here are some of the most commonly used dental insurance terms and what they mean.

A Basic Glossary

• Annual Maximum.  The maximum yearly amount your policy will pay for your care.
• Co-payment.  The amount the patient pays at the time of service before insurance pays.
• Covered Services.  A list of all covered treatments, services and procedures.
• Deductible.  The yearly out of pocket dollar amount you must pay.
• Diagnostic/Preventive Services.  Covered treatments before the deductible.
• In-Network.  Services covered at a larger portion by contracted providers.
• Lifetime Maximum.  The maximum covered amount that will be paid out.
• Limitations/Exclusions.  Procedures not covered by your policy.
• Member/Insured/Covered Person/Beneficiary/Enrollee.  Eligible person for benefits.
• Provider.  Health care person that provides treatment.
• Waiting Period.  Specified time the patient must wait before coverage begins.

There are many different insurance options available, so you need to find out exactly what your insurance covers.  It's important to review your plan with a qualified insurance specialist.  Don't be afraid to ask questions about the policy so that you can understand it fully and be confident that you know everything that your policy covers the next time that you come in for treatment.  If you have additional questions or are in need of an appointment, call our office at 918-455-0123!

God Bless,

DRT

Labor Day 2015!

Labor Day is once again upon us, the unofficial end to summer. Before long, the temperatures here in "Green Country" will start to cool down, and, for many, this is your last chance to barbecue, head to one of our area lakes, or if your are into fashion etiquette, wear your favorite pair of white pants!

Each year, Labor day is celebrated on the first Monday of September.  It is the one day of the year that Americans celebrate their achievements in work, which the US Department of Labor says has contributed to the prosperity and well-being of America as a whole. Americans have been celebrating Labor Day since the 1880s, and today it is an official federal holiday.

Did you know...

• Every year, 30 million Americans travel over Labor Day
• Canada was the first country to celebrate Labor Day
• President Cleveland made Labor Day an official US holiday in 1894
• Labor Day marks the beginning of the NFL and NCAA sports seasons for fans
• Labor Day marks the end of the hot dog season, which Americans consume seven billion

Thanks for being a valued part of our dental family and whatever your plans may be this upcoming weekend, have a fun and safe Labor Day!

God Bless,

DRT