Frequently Asked Questions

South Side Chicago Dentist

Should I buy dental insurance?

No. This video tells the story of dental insurance and why we believe it’s not a good investment.  Its worth the time to view. Enjoy!

Do you take insurance?

Yes and no, and here is why.

On the yes side, we will at times take the insurance payment as partial payment and make financial arrangements for the co-pay.

On the no side, below is our reasoning for not being listed as preferred providers in any dental networks.

The “Dental Benefit” or dental insurance is not the same as medical insurance because of it’s low annual dollar allotment and the restrictions on what is covered. Its more like a discount plan for routine dental care.  We offer in office payment plans, Care Credit and other 3rd party programs which allow for monthly payments, some with no interest.  Whether or not you have dental insurance, we focus on your needs, work within your budget and avoid the confusion of the constantly changing world of dental benefits. Don’t get discouraged. Our office has followed this policy for decades delivering quality service. We do not have to compromise due to the limitations of your dental benefit. Your smile and health are certainly worth it!

Why aren’t you in my plan?

Two main reasons. Plans are limited in what they cover and they restrict the dentist ability to set their fees. These restrictions don’t match well with our goals of providing exceptional care. Overhead is significant for quality dental restorative materials, lasers, digital imaging, quality continuing education, happy staff members with benefits, nice office décor, marketing, ….you get the idea. It’s not that we don’t  value your dental plan; trust me you can use it at our office if you can go out of network.

Do you put people to sleep?

Yes we can.

Fear is a big obstacle and yes we can put you to sleep. Know this, 90% of our patients are treated with just local anesthetic and are surprised at the experience not being as bad and they imagined.  We also offer conscious sedation. If you want to be put completely to sleep we bring in an anesthesiologist.

Do You Take Medicare and Medicaid?

The real question is what does Medicare and Medicaid cover?

Those programs cover only extractions and dentures for adult patients. We mainly care for adults and they often need so much more. We are able to provide services desired and work within your budget to help you achieve a healthy mouth for as low a cost as possible. We do not accept Medicare or Medicaid but can refer you to dentists that accept the program.

How much will my care cost?

Dental care can be expensive, especially if its been awhile since you’ve had care. You will hear the saying- “Put your money where your mouth is, your smile is worth it” in our office.  Many patients agree once they see their smile and enjoy chewing again.

Quoting fee’s occurs after you let us know your budget, your desires, and, of course, after an examination by the doctors. Only then can we come up with a plan that fits you.  Dental care has many options and solutions can be found for your unique situation.  Many factors must be considered so please allow us to have you in for a  free consultation to get things started.

How long will it take?

It depends on your treatment plan and your budget. For example, tooth removal or extractions are done in one visit. If you need a filling, its likely two visits, exam then filling. Gum treatment can be done in one or two visits after an initial exam, but maintenance care is always offered for best outcomes. A treatment plan involving implants, dentures, crowns, or braces will take multiple appointments. We often use time to help with the expense and can extend treatment out longer.  With the 3 dentist working together, treatment can move quite rapidly even for complex cases.

What are your office hours?

By appointment Monday through Friday 8 to 6. One Saturday a month  for cleanings and gum treatment. The doctors have been known to open for other services on Saturday as needed.

What type of payments do you take?

We take all major credit cards, debit cards, checks, cash, Care Credit, Springstone, and Citi Health. In office payment plans are available also.