Dentists and insurance costs?

Question

Ok, I have a horrable fear of the dentist and havent been in three years.

Now I know I NEED to go but I have a panic attack just calling around for one.

I have heard that some of them can administer a gas that calms you ar knocks you out before the dental work.

Does anyone know if its covered under any insuraces? Or what the cost is per visit, or each time they do it?

I have New York State Medicaid by the way.

Thanks

Answer 1

Look in the yellow pages there are actual dentists that work with people that are scared of dentists. When you call tell the receptionists your fears and if they take your type of insurance. If not I think 1-800-DENTIST works all across the country talk to one of their representatives.

Answer 2

If NY Medicaid is anything like the rest of the country, you will have trouble finding a dentist who will accept it. The problem with these plans is that they reimburse so low (and take over 2 months to pay) that very few dentists can afford to accept it.

Dentists who pamper their patients - the ones who take time and offer special care to high fears people - are usually not those who will take Medicaid patients. They simply could not keep their doors open giving that level of service for what Medicaid pays them.

As an example: a hygienist in our state earns about $40 per hour. Our hygiene department takes a full hour to do a cleaning and exam - making sure the patient is comfortable, relaxed, and understanding their oral health. The state pays about $25 for that service. At that rate - even if we don't consider materials, sterilization of equipment, x-rays, or an exam - we've just paid $15 our of our pockets to see that patient.

The state doesn't care if you're comfortable. Laughing gas and other creature comforts are usually not covered.

Answer 3

Some dentists specialize in helping people with fear of going to the dentist...check the yellow pages or call County Dental association for a recommendation. Also, I was in the same position, and went to a female dentist. Now I know there may be many compassionate male dentists out there, but I never met one...and I have been to many. This female dentist is very kind and understanding. You may need to call your Medicaid rep. to see which local dentists accept their plan. Then really talk to the receptionist when you make the appointment...maybe they will allow you to go meet the dentist before your regular appointment. Good Luck.

Answer 4

Before you go....ask the dentist in advance if he can prescribe
ONE xanax...take it an hour before you sit in the chair...you
cannot possiblly work yourself up....also..ask to be put on a
payment plan...insurance is simply not worth the hassle..plus
they really don't cover all that much without a fight..

Answer 5

MEDICAID IS A FEDERAL PROGRAM THAT IS AVAILALBE TO ALL OF THE 50 STATES IN THE USA, UNFORTUNATELY MADICAID DOES NOT PAY FOR DENTAL WORK.
PUBLIC AID ONLY PAYS FOR EXTRACTIONS IN THOSE HOSPITALS THAT ACCEPT PUBLIC AID. FOR CHILDREN THERE IS LIMITED COVERAGE.

Answer 6

You can get an affordable dental plan here: http://www.mybenefitsplus.com/LMota