YOUR QUESTIONS. OUR ANSWERS.
Browse through our frequently asked questions from parents (just like you!).
Getting Started
What's the age range of children seen at Colorado Dentistry for Children?
We see children from the moment their first tooth emerges, which is often before they are 1 year old. So the short answer is: Children (close to) 1 to 18 years old.
Do I need a referral to see a pediatric dentist?
Definitely not! Every child is welcome at Colorado Dentistry for Children. Schedule your appointment now!
When should my child see a dentist?
By age 1 or when the first tooth appears in the mouth. Past that? That’s okay – it’s never too late to have your child see a dentist!
Why fix baby teeth if they are only going to fall out?
Every situation is unique and it depends on the tooth. Baby teeth are used to help kids bite, chew, have normal oral function, and hold space for permanent teeth. Infections in baby teeth can spread and cause serious problems. Making sure all teeth stay healthy is important.
When are braces needed?
We will evaluate your children for braces as permanent teeth start to appear in the mouth. Most children don’t need braces until 11-12 years of age; however, we may suggest earlier braces if particular problems are present.
Insurance and Forms
What is the insurance policy at Colorado Dentistry for Children?
Our well-trained team and children’s dentist will submit insurance claims for you! But please remember, insurance is often a method of reimbursement and not a method of payment. If there is an out-of-pocket expense, we will assist you in estimating those prior to any treatment being performed.
To maximize your dental benefits, we will need current insurance information prior to every appointment. Please call us to update your information or if you have any questions!
We accept all insurance, Credit Card, Debit Card, Cash, and CareCredit.
Where do I send my patient forms?
Please download the New Patient Forms and fax them to 970-XXX-XXXX or email them to [email protected] prior to your appointment. If you are unable to complete the forms prior to your appointment, please arrive 30 minutes early to fill out the necessary paperwork. We look forward to taking care of you and your children!
Dental insurance Facts
FACT 1 – DENTAL INSURANCE IS A CONTRACT BETWEEN YOU, YOUR EMPLOYER AND THE INSURANCE COMPANY. We are not a party to that contract.
FACT 2 – DENTAL INSURANCE IS NOT MEANT TO COVER ALL FEES. It is meant to be an aid to your investment in your child’s dental healthcare. Many routine dental services are not covered by dental insurance.
FACT 3 – NO INSURANCE PAYS 100% OF ALL PROCEDURES. Many patients think that their insurance pays 90%-100% of all dental fees. This is not true! Most plans only pay between 50%-80% of the average total fee. Some pay more, some pay less. The percentage paid is usually determined by how much you or your employer has paid for coverage or the type of contract your employer has set up with the insurance company.
FACT 4 – FREQUENCIES & LIMITATIONS OF BENEFITS. The frequency of payment for some procedures may be limited by an insurance company. This is most often encountered in a pediatric dental office with fluoride treatments. The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend the application of fluoride every 6 months since it is proven to be highly effective against tooth decay. Our office follows those recommendations in order to achieve optimal oral health for your child. Therefore, if an insurance plan limits the frequency of the fluoride treatment, the parent will be responsible for this cost. This can also be encountered with other procedures, such as x-rays and sealants.
FACT 5 – BENEFITS ARE NOT DETERMINED BY OUR OFFICE. You may have noticed that sometimes your dental insurer reimburses you or the dentist at a lower rate than the dentist’s actual fee. Frequently, insurance companies state that the reimbursement was reduced because your dentist’s fee has exceeded the usual, customary, or reasonable fee (“UCR”) they consider allowable. These allowable fees may vary widely, because each company collects fee information from claims it processes. The insurance company then takes this data and arbitrarily chooses a level they call the “allowable” UCR Fee. Frequently, this data can be three to five years old and these “allowable” fees are set by the insurance company so they can make a net 20%-30% profit.
Unfortunately, insurance companies imply that your dentist is “overcharging”, rather than say that they are “underpaying”, or that their benefits are low. In general, the less expensive insurance policy will use a lower usual, customary, or reasonable (UCR) figure.
What insurance plans are accepted at CDFC?
CDFC accepts most dental insurance plans*, including Medicaid and CHP+
General Questions
When should I start to use toothpaste?
It’s safe to use toothpaste as soon as teeth erupt, but you don’t need much. A “smear” or “rice-size” amount is good until about age 3; use a “pea-size” amount for ages 3-6.
Does breast milk cause cavities?
Not by itself; however, breast milk can cause cavities to grow faster. Brush or wipe your infant’s teeth after breastfeeding to help prevent early childhood cavities.
Is fluoride safe?
Fluoride is considered the standard of care and is endorsed by the American Dental Association, the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, the CDC, and many other dental associations. We use fluoride on our children!
My child is afraid of the dentist, now what?
Do you have a fear of going to the dentist? Your child’s fear may be the result of what you have told them. Regardless, dental fear is very common, especially if a child has had a negative experience at the dentist in the past. Come stop by for a visit, and you’ll see we will do everything we can to ensure a safe and calm experience.