Frequently Asked Questions

Guy G. Levy, DDS of Levy Dental Group is happy to answer the most frequently asked questions regarding your dental health.

Q: What insurances do you take?

A: We are  participating providers ( “ in-network ” )  with the following insurance companies:

1. Delta Dental Premier – Dr. Guy Levy and Dr. George Michos
2. Cigna PPO – Core and Radius
   GEHA Connection Dental Federal – both High Option and Standard Option
3. DeCare Dental
   Anthem GRID+ (FEP Blue Dental)
4. Delta Dental PPO – Dr. George Michos

For all  other insurance companies we are out of network. We are happy to file your insurance claim as a service to our patients, but you, the patient, are responsible for the entire fee.

Q: Is my insurance going to cover that?

A: There are many different insurance companies and each employer has their own unique relationship with these insurance companies. Employers decide what procedures will be covered and at what percentage. Because each contract is different, we encourage our patients to become familiar with their own policy. Policy information can be very confusing. The policy might say that they cover a particular procedure at 100% or 80% but it is based on the fees that insurance company has set, not our fees. If you are concerned about your possible out of pocket expense, we are happy to file a pre-determination with your insurance company. This will tell you and us what your insurance company will cover and at what level so that you will know exactly what your portion of the fee you will have to pay.

Q: What are my payment options?

A: We take cash, your personal check and accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover Card, and American Express.We also can help you to apply for CareCredit, which is a no interest credit card. With this card, you will charge the entire amount owed to us and can then pay them back over 3 -12 months with no accumulated interest. Many patients have found this option to be very helpful when they have a large amount of dental treatment needed.

Q: How much do I need to pay when I come in?

A: We ask that you pay for all treatment in full at time of service.

Q: How long has the doctor been in practice?

A: Dr. Guy Levy joined his father in practice in 1987 after graduating with honors from Georgetown University Dental School. 

Q: Which type of toothbrush should I use?

A: The brand of the toothbrush is not as critical as the type of bristle and the size of the head. A soft toothbrush with a small head is recommended because medium and hard brushes tend to cause irritation and contribute to recession of the gums, and a small head allows you to get around each tooth more completely and is less likely to injure your gums. It’s unnecessary to “scrub” the teeth as long as you are brushing at least twice a day and visiting your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings. Today, there are many excellent brushes from which to choose. We have found the Sonicare Toothbrush to be a great product (we all use it ourselves!).

Q: Is one toothpaste better than others?

A: Yes, depending upon one’s needs. We always recommend a fluoride toothpaste, but some people are sensitive to the ingredients in certain whitening or tartar control toothpastes. Also, some people with sensitive teeth or who get cavities easily may benefit from specially formulated toothpastes.

Q: How often should I floss?

A: Flossing of the teeth at least once per day helps to prevent cavities from forming between the teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing also helps to keep your gums healthy.

Q: What’s the difference between a “crown” and a “cap”?

A: Both of these words describe the same thing. These are restorations to repair a severely broken or decayed tooth by covering all or most of the tooth. The restoration material is made of gold, porcelain, composites, or even stainless steel. Dentists refer to all of these restorations as “crowns.”

Q: What’s the difference between a “bridge” and a “partial denture”?

A: Both of these words can describe the same thing. Any time one or more teeth are replaced, where some teeth still remain, the replacement is called either a fixed partial denture (usually referred to as a “bridge”) or a removable partial denture. A fixed partial denture or “bridge” is cemented to the remaining teeth or in some cases implants. A removable partial denture is attached by clasps to the teeth or may be attached to implants and is easily removed by the patient.

Q: What about “silver” fillings versus “white” fillings?

A: Both silver amalgam fillings and white composite fillings may be appropriate for restoring teeth. However, there may be good reasons to use one over the other, including cost, appearance, strength and function. We always take the time to discuss with you the risks and benefits of your options. We will help you choose the best treatment for you. Fillings cannot be used in every situation. If a tooth is very badly broken-down, a crown may be necessary and provide better overall satisfaction for the patient.

Q: Do I need to have a root canal just because I have to have a crown?

A: No. While most teeth which have had root canal treatments do need crowns to strengthen the teeth and to return the teeth to normal form and function, not every tooth needing a crown also needs to have a root canal.

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Please know when we discuss dental health issues using the internet and email, it must be understood that no information shared can be considered a diagnosis of a specific condition. We are only able to diagnose dental health conditions after a thorough clinical examination.