Best Ways To Find A Dentist In-Network

Finding an in-network dentist in Indianapolis isn’t always a cut and dry task. Insurance companies are increasingly restrictive as to which dental practice(s) are considered to be in their network. In some cases with multiple dentists practicing at the same office location, one dentist may be credentialed with your insurance, while another dentist is not. In years past, you could roll the dice and visit the dentist under the assumption that your insurance company has you covered, but you have to be a bit more strategic about it these days.

With some basic research, you can identify your options and narrow your search. Of course, it’s a personal decision that only you can make. The dentist you choose today could be the dentist you and your family trust for many years to come. If you can get it right the first time, it could save you a lot of trouble (and headaches). With that in mind, take the time to make a smart decision that ensures you are adequately covered by your insurance provider.

Here are a few tips for how to find in-network dentists in Indianapolis.

Visit the Insurance Company's Website for a Provider Directory

The logical first step in your dentist search is your insurance company’s website. Insurance companies have come a long way from printed directories or even online PDFs. Most major insurance carriers now offer online search tools that can help you locate an in-network dentist or specialist with just a few clicks.

These advanced search features can filter in-network dentists by dental specialty, network or coverage type, practice location, amenities, special needs or requirements, and much more!

• Search by specialty. Maybe you’re new to the area and don’t yet have a specific dentist or practice in mind. Many insurance websites include search fields for dental specialty. Examples of dental specialties can include general dentist, oral surgeon, endodontist, periodontist, pediatric (children’s) dentist, orthodontist, prosthodontist, etc. Searching by specialty can save you a lot of time if you know what kind of dentist you are looking to schedule an appointment with.
• Search by coverage. With DMOs/HMOs and PPOs, not all coverage levels are the same from practice to practice. Many dentists take either PPOs or HMOs, but some do take both. Understanding exactly which type of plan you have will help ensure that you are well covered with the dentist you choose.
• Search by practice location. This is useful if proximity to your home or work is important. You can narrow your search, typically based on a ZIP code or a radius from an address. From there, you can find the dentist most qualified to meet your needs and also conveniently located.
• Search by dentist name. Of course, there’s the search feature for a specific dentist, and many insurance databases allow you to search by last, full or partial name. This feature can be especially useful if you know a dentist’s name, but are not sure of the exact practice location. Or, perhaps he/she works out of multiple practice locations. This tool will allow you to see all office addresses for that provider and choose one that is best for you.

What if I Don't Want to Search a Database?

Online databases aren’t for everyone, and that’s fine. If that’s the case, your search options might be slightly more limited, but may be just as effective.

• Request recommendations from your insurance company. By going to the source and calling your insurance carrier directly, you can be absolutely sure that you’ll be covered by an in-network dentist. If there’s a downside, it’s that the insurance company’s pick is somewhat blind, which can definitely be hit or miss. It might take a few tries to find a dentist who is right for you and your family.
• Ask the dentist. If you’ve already got a relationship with a dentist, or if you’re going by a friend’s recommendation, just pick up the phone and call the prospective dentist’s office. Tell the receptionist your insurance company’s name and group number, and he/she can usually find out right away whether the dentist is in your network.

Our FAQ Page Is Also an Excellent Resource

Clarity Dentistry goes one step further and lists the major insurance companies for which we are in-network. Simply go to our home page and under the “About” tab, click the “FAQs” menu option — or click here — and get all the information you’ll need.

We are in-network for most major dental insurance providers, such as Aetna, Anthem, Cigna, Delta Dental, MetLife, United Healthcare, and many others, which can make your dentist search in Indianapolis quick and easy.

Why Is Clarity Dentistry the Option for You?

The benefits of Clarity Dentistry go well beyond the fact that we’re in-network for major insurance providers. Our experienced dentist is truly world-class, utilizing state-of-the-art dental techniques and technology. We’ve earned a reputation in Indianapolis as an extremely gentle, family-oriented practice that puts patient needs first. We offer a wide range of services — including emergency dental care — so that you’re not bounced from practice to practice. Our goal is to be a long-term dentist for you and your family.

To find out if we’re in-network for you, or to learn more about our comprehensive dentistry services, contact us today.