Transparency about how we handle insurance is important to us.
Many patients searching for a dentist in Durham want to understand how insurance works at a new office before scheduling an appointment. At Church Family Dentistry & Cosmetics, we operate as a fee-for-service practice, which means every treatment recommendation Dr. Will Church provides is based entirely on your individual oral health needs. Most PPO plans still provide benefits when patients visit an out-of-network dentist, and our team files all claims on your behalf as a courtesy to help you receive the maximum reimbursement your plan allows.
We are not in network with any insurance carrier, but that does not mean your benefits disappear when you visit our office. We accept and file claims with all PPO dental plans so you can still put your coverage to work. Our front desk team contacts your insurance company before your appointment to verify your plan details, estimate your out-of-pocket costs, and make sure you know what to expect financially before any treatment begins.
The primary difference between visiting an in-network and out-of-network provider is how your plan calculates reimbursement. Your PPO plan may cover a slightly lower percentage of the allowed fee than it would at a contracted office, but many patients find the difference is modest. Your general and preventive care is still eligible for benefits, and our team handles the entire claims process so you do not have to deal with paperwork. Payment for your estimated portion is due at the time of service, and any remaining balance after your insurance processes the claim is your responsibility.
Insurance carriers we file claims with on your behalf include the following:
Insurance networks require dentists to agree to reduced fee schedules and follow plan-driven treatment guidelines. By staying out of network, Dr. Will Church maintains full control over your treatment plan and can recommend the best materials, techniques, and technology available without limitations from a third-party payer. This means your care decisions are made between you and your dentist, not influenced by what an insurance company is willing to cover.
Dental insurance functions differently than medical insurance. Most plans cap annual benefits between $1,000 and $1,500, which has remained largely unchanged for decades regardless of rising costs of care. Whether you are in network or out of network, your plan has the same annual maximum. Our fee-for-service approach ensures that when you invest in your oral health, you are receiving treatment designed around your goals and long-term wellness, not around the constraints of a benefits contract.
We partner with Cherry, Sunbit, and Proceed to offer flexible financing for treatments of all sizes. These providers offer a range of plans, and our team can help you find the right fit during your visit. We also accept HSA and FSA funds, major credit cards, personal checks, and cash.
