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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

If we were not able to answer your question below, please give us a call and our team would be happy to discuss any concerns.

General FAQs

Can I go into the operating room with my child while they have their dental work completed?

No. Only dental and medical staff are allowed in the operating room in order to comply with standards that our facility is held accountable to. One parent should accompany your child prior to the procedure and in recovery following the completion of the procedure.

Will the dentist let me know what treatment is needed prior to completing the treatment?
Our dentist will give you their best appraisal of the work that needs to be done, but once the patient is asleep and x-rays are taken, the treatment plan may change. To ensure that your child is not under anesthesia any longer than is medically necessary our dentists do not leave the OR after x-rays are taken to tell you their findings and revised treatment plan. After the procedure is complete, the dentist will explain what was found on the intraoperative x-rays, and what work was completed during the procedure as a result.
Can I leave to get food while my child is in surgery?
No, you cannot leave the facility (or the parking lot) while your child is in surgery for any reason. Questions about your child’s dental or health care needs may arise during the procedure and the parent or guardian is needed to answer these questions and be available to make important decisions.
Why does my child have to fast before surgery?
Fasting prior to surgery is required to reduce the risk of your child breathing in any food or liquid while under anesthesia. While rare, this is a very serious complication and parents need to strictly follow our fasting guidelines.
Why do I need to bring my photo ID for my child's surgery?
We require proof of your identity to sign consent forms
Why do I have to wait in my car while my child is in surgery?
This is a COVID-related precaution.
Should I bring snacks to eat in my car while my child is in surgery?
Yes, we recommend that parents bring food for themselves to eat in their car while their child is in surgery. Because we don’t allow food in our facility and you won’t be allowed to leave for the duration of your child’s time with us we recommend that you plan ahead by bringing food for yourself. Be sure to put the food that you prepare for yourself in your trunk so that your little one isn’t tempted to eat it. (fasting is hard especially when you’re young)  
 
Remember: if your child does get into your snacks (food, water, gum, hard candies) their surgery will be canceled for their safety. 
 
As a reminder: We don’t allow any food or drinks inside of our facility (including coffee, water, and tea).
Can I bring my other children with me?

Arrangements should be made for siblings of the patient to stay at home with another adult. Only one parent will be allowed into the facility with the patient.

Billing FAQs

How many bills will I receive for the surgery?

Similar to when you visit the hospital, there are three fees (separate bills) associated with your visit:

  1. Dental (covers dental surgeon’s services and dental supplies)
  2. Facility (covers equipment, supplies, nurses, and rent)
  3. Anesthesia (covers the anesthesia provider’s services)

Please be prepared to make a deposit of up to $2,000 when you schedule your surgery. Your deposit will be used for your portion of the fees (copayment/co-insurance/deductible).

How much will I have to pay prior to surgery (copayment/co-insurance/deductible)?

It is our policy to collect any co-pays, co-insurance, and/or deductibles prior to your surgery date. This allows you to focus on your child’s post-operative care.

You will be required to pay for non-covered services in full before care is provided. For questions about copay, coinsurance, deductible, or non-covered services, contact your insurance company.

Please note that the cost estimates provided are based on anticipated services. Actual charges cannot always be determined until after the procedure is complete, because:

  1. Treatment is confirmed once your child is asleep and x-rays are taken
  2. Anesthesia fees depend on the actual time your child is asleep
  3. Medical insurance co-payments will be determined after the insurance company reviews the claim and will depend on your deductibles, coinsurance, coverage, and out-of-pocket maximum.

Please wait 48 hours after your child’s surgery for all billing requests.

What does my pre-payment cover?

Your pre-payment covers your share of the estimated Dental, Anesthesia, and Facility Fees. 

What CPT codes should I ask my Medical Insurance about?
The Facility Fee is billed to your medical insurance. You may contact your medical insurance carrier and inquire about copayment, co-insurance & deductibles. Please inquire about your coverage for CPT code 00170 (Anesthesia) and CPT code (41899) for the Facility Fee. (Our fees are lower than hospitals in the area—we recommend you call and compare our rates with Children’s National Medical Center, the University of Maryland, or INOVA).
What do I have to submit to my insurance?
Nothing. As a courtesy, our finance team will submit claims to primary insurance and, if applicable, secondary insurance, including Medicaid. You will receive a statement for any unpaid balance(s) as noted on the EOB(s) from your insurance(s). Your balance due is payable when the statement is received.
What do I have to submit to my insurance?
An EOB is an Explanation of Benefits—this describes the charges we billed to your insurance company and your insurance company uses it to tell us what is covered. AN EOB IS NOT A BILL. You will receive a copy of the EOB in the mail. If your insurance company tells us they don’t cover everything, you may receive a bill in the mail later.

If you have any questions, please call 301-494-3000 and ask to speak with a billing specialist.