A short phone call can save time and surprises. Questions many people find useful:
Coverage and payment
- “Are you in-network with my exact plan?” (give the plan name and group number)
- “Do you accept Medicaid for adults/children?” (also see our Medicaid dentist finder)
- “Do you offer a membership plan, payment plans or self-pay pricing?”
Scheduling
- “How soon can a new patient be seen?”
- “Do you have early, evening or weekend hours?”
- “How do you handle emergencies for existing patients after hours?”
Services and comfort
- “Do you see children?” / “Which procedures do you refer out?”
- “Can you accommodate dental anxiety, mobility needs or sensory needs?” (our special needs dentistry guide lists more questions)
- “Which languages does your team speak?”
First visit
- “What does the first appointment include, and should I request records from my old dentist?”
You can shortlist offices with our dentists near me directory. Terms like “in-network” and “UCR fee” are explained in the dental insurance glossary.
General education only, not a diagnosis or treatment advice. Please see a licensed dentist about your own situation. For a medical emergency (trouble breathing or swallowing, heavy bleeding, a major injury or rapidly spreading swelling), call 911 or go to the nearest ER.