Our dentist and team know that many people have questions about dental care. We have provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we hear. If you have further questions, and to make your appointment with Dr. Novan Nguyen in Sacramento, California, call Blossom Dental Wellness at 916-422-3991.
How much will my first visit cost me?
The cost of your appointment will depend on your insurance policy. Each insurance provider is different, so please contact our office to receive an accurate estimate of your treatment cost. Our staff can discuss financial options with you and work with you to find the right payment option for your budget. We strive to make your treatment affordable, and offer several financial options to meet your needs.
What if i don’t have dental insurance?
If you do not have insurance, our practice offers an awesome New Patient Special. With this offer, you pay only $99 for a comprehensive exam, cleaning, and X-rays. Call us for more details.
Do you accept dshs (medicaid, medicare, etc.)?
No. However, our office does offer flexible, affordable payment plans through CareCredit, and we accept many other insurance plans.
Is carecredit an insurance policy?
No. CareCredit is a third-party financing group. CareCredit is essentially a healthcare credit card, for which you can qualify based on the strength of your credit history. It does not replace dental insurance. Instead, it helps you pay out-of-pocket healthcare costs that may not be covered through your insurance policy.
What kind of payment options are provided by carecredit?
CareCredit offers a full range of financing options. For purchases of $200 or more, there are 6, 12, 18, and 24-month plans available where you can avoid paying interest as long as you make your minimum monthly payments and pay the full amount due by the end of the promotional period. If the balance of your treatment is not paid by the end of that period, interest will be charged to your account.
What is the difference between hmo and ppo insurance?
HMO or DHMO plans (Dental Health Maintenance Organization) are pre-paid plans, and require you to choose one dentist or dental facility to coordinate all your oral health needs. In some cases, a dentist is appointed to you. If you need a specialist, your primary care dentist will refer you, and you may require pre-authorization to receive treatment. You do not choose your own dentist or go out-of-network for treatment.
PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) plans offer a network feature, and usually offer a balance between lower costs and your choice of dentist. When you visit a dentist, you will typically pay a certain percentage of the rate (a co-payment), and the plan will cover the rest of the cost. This percentage varies by the type of coverage you have. PPO insurances usually require you to meet a deductible, and have an annual maximum amount of coverage.
When should my child visit the dentist for the first time?
It is recommended that children visit the dentist for the first time as soon as their teeth begin to come in, or no later than their first birthday. These initial visits will be focused on monitoring your child’s oral growth and development, and on helping them feel comfortable in the dentist’s office.
How often should i visit the dentist?
You should visit the dentist twice each year for a dental cleaning and exam. Depending on your oral health needs, your dentist may recommend that you visit more frequently.
Why do i need to floss?
Brushing cannot reach in-between your teeth or below the gum line. Flossing keeps those areas of your mouth clean and free from plaque, and disrupts bacteria before it can congregate.
Do braces hurt?
No. You may feel some aching and mild discomfort for a day or so following placement of your braces, and after your appliance has been readjusted. If you experience severe or lasting pain, contact our office.
Are there foods i should avoid while wearing braces?
Yes. While wearing braces, you should avoid hard, crunchy, sticky, and chewy foods that could damage your appliances or get stuck in your braces. Our dentist can provide you with a specific list of foods to avoid during your treatment.
Are x-rays safe?
Yes. The amount of radiation you are exposed to during the process of taking X-rays is very small, and advances in dentistry, such as digital X-ray machines and high speed X-ray film, continue to further reduce this exposure. Additionally, federal law requires X-ray machines be checked for safety and accuracy every 2 years.
I'm terrified of visiting the dentist? what should i do?
If you experience fear or anxiety when visiting the dentist, you are not alone. Many people avoid visiting the dentist for these reasons.
If you are afraid or worried, please call us and speak with our dentist. We take your fear seriously, and do everything we can to help you feel comfortable in our office. Our dentist and team are happy to work with you to relieve your anxieties. There are many strategies that we can provide you help lessen your fear.
