Payment Options

In our practice, the best interest of our patients always comes first and we are committed to delivering the best care experience for everyone we serve. Given this commitment, we do not participate in most insurance plans because we believe that this reimbursement structure can shift focus away from what is best for patients and toward providing services dictated by a payment schedule. This process is inconsistent with our commitment to quality care.

We Work with Insurance

Although we not in-network for most insurance plans, we do work with all PPO dental insurances as an out-of-network provider. In fact, over 70% of our patients have PPO insurance and choose to see Dr. de la Torre. Most PPO plans provide 100% coverage of routine maintenance services, such as cleanings, exams and x-rays. The reason we can do this is that PPO plans give patients a lot of flexibility in choosing their dentist, which allows you to select the best one that fits your needs. This structure also allows us to work with numerous insurance providers to help lower your out-of-pocket costs.

To determine if your insurance will cover your care at our office, simply give us a call. We will:

• Collect information about your specific insurance plan;
• Contact your insurance company to determine coverage levels at our office
• Call to share with you what we’ve learned and inform you of the estimated amount of out-of-pocket costs you will be responsible to pay, if any; and
• Schedule your first appointment.

Given our “patient-first” commitment, we only request that you pay the anticipated out-of-pocket expenses at each appointment and we will bill the insurance company for the remainder. This allows you to avoid paying the entire amount up front and waiting for the reimbursement check from the insurance company. If once the insurance pays and you owe any difference, then we will send you a bill for the remainder.

When a patient requires services, such as a filling or crown, we can pre-authorize those procedures and let you know exactly how much your out of pocket expense will be. At that point, we can also discuss payment plan options if needed.

Benefits of seeing a provider of your choice:

• These patients enjoy an excellent care experience with our team;
• They have a great relationship Dr. de la Torre and her staff, so they are more comfortable and relaxed in our office, and you can count on always seeing Dr. de la Torre, the same hygienist, if preferred, and front and back office staff.
• Their cost is often less than what they would pay at an in-network provider because the co-pay amount can be higher than our standard cost of service.

Additional Payment Options

We accept a variety of payment options for our patients, including:

• Cash, debit cards or personal checks*
• VISA, MasterCard, Discover and American Express
• 3-, 6-, 12-month, no-interest payment plans, as well as low-interest and extended payment plans through CareCredit®.

Please note that patients without insurance are expected to pay in full at the time of service.  However, we understand that some dental procedures are costly and therefore we offer financing through CareCredit.  Learn more about this payment option here.
Patients with insurance are expected to pay all deductibles and percentages not paid by the insurance company at the time of service.  The patient is financially responsible to pay the full fee, regardless of insurance payment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Care Credit

1. How can I apply for Care Credit?

You can apply online or download and print the application and take it to your healthcare provider. The application is quick and easy, and after it’s submitted, you’ll instantly learn if you’re approved. You can also apply over the phone by calling 800.365.8295.

2. Can I pay a portion of the treatment cost myself and use Care Credit for the remainder?

Yes. You can use Care Credit for treatment balances from $200 to over $25,000.

3. How is CareCredit different from my Visa or MasterCard?

Save your consumer credit cards for household or unplanned expenses! Unlike your Visa or MasterCard, CareCredit is exclusive for healthcare services and you can get No Interest* financing every time you use it. If you need more time to pay for your procedure, you can take advantage of our extended payment plans with low, fixed interest rates.

4. I already have a Care Credit account, can I use it again?

Yes, you can use your Care Credit account over and over, at any practice that accepts Care Credit. As long as you have the available credit on your account, you can use your card for ongoing or new treatments and procedures without reapplying.