Did you know the majority of dental insurance providers follow the Alberta Dental Fee Guide? The Alberta dental fee guide can be accessed by the public. One of the biggest constraints for patients scheduling appointments with their dentist in Fort McMurray is the cost associated with each treatment. The Alberta government is working to bring these fees more in line with other provinces, and the Alberta Dental Association & College (ADA+C) values being transparent about these costs.
Our goal is to provide you with quality dental services so that the investment you make in your oral health care is smart and prevents more costly dental work in the long run.
Why refer to the Alberta Dental Fee Guide?
Although it’s not mandatory for dentists in Fort McMurray to follow this guide, it’s helpful to know what the ADA+C and the provincial government recommend as a fair cost for dental treatments. Every dental clinic differs, and one may follow the guide for all services while another charges less or more, depending on the individual’s care.
If you’re shopping around for dental costs, the guide helps by including:
- A list of dental procedures provided by Alberta dental clinics
- A description of each of these dental procedures along with their codes used by dentists
- Suggested fees for the dental procedure, which you can use to compare prices
This can help you tremendously when contacting your insurance company to find out how much you’re covered and the amount you’ll be required to pay out-of-pocket.
What to ask during a visit with your dentist
If you need specific treatments, such as a filling, crown, or root canal, your dentist will typically explain the procedure to you and then get your permission before proceeding with treatment. This is a great time to ask the following:
- What fee do you charge for the service?
- Do you charge according to the Alberta Dental Fee Guide
- If you charge more, can you tell me why?
- Are there any extra fees, such as X-rays and lab tests?
If you choose your dentist to complete the procedure, it helps to be aware of their costs, so you’re not left with an unexpected dental bill. If you decide to hold off on treatment until you can compare fees with other dentists, be sure you feel comfortable with the new dentist before you proceed with treatment.
When choosing a new dentist, consider the following:
- Does the dentist take the time to answer your questions in detail?
- Does the dental clinic have good ratings and reviews?
- Is the dentist responsive to your concerns?
- Do you feel the dentist cares about your oral health?
- Do you feel comfortable with the dentist?
Keep in mind that while another dentist may charge less, but you feel more comfortable with a dentist who charges more, it might be worth the extra cost. Ultimately, it depends on your preferences, comfort level, and personal experience.
