🦷 Dental Office Terms Scanner

⚠️ 6 Dental Office Gotchas to Watch For

• Insurance Estimate Disclaimer: HIGH "Insurance estimates are not guarantees." You may owe hundreds more if insurance pays less than quoted—and the office won't absorb the difference
• Payment Due at Time of Service: HIGH Full patient portion due immediately, regardless of insurance claims. You pay upfront and wait months for reimbursement yourself
• Missed Appointment Fees: MEDIUM $50-150+ fees for cancellations without 24-48 hour notice. Some offices charge for multiple missed appointments permanently
• Treatment Plan Commitment: MEDIUM Signing a treatment plan may obligate you to complete all recommended work. Declining partial treatment may void warranties
• Cosmetic vs. Medically Necessary: MEDIUM Many procedures classified as "cosmetic" aren't covered by insurance even when they affect oral health. Whitening, veneers, and some orthodontics excluded
• Collections and Interest: HIGH Unpaid balances sent to collections after 30-60 days. Interest rates of 18-24% APR may apply to payment plans or overdue balances