Philosophy

On Dentistry:

We believe that the quality of one’s work is a reflection of his or her integrity. So we strive to provide our patients with the same quality of care that we would want for our own family. Care that utilizes the best technology and materials that dentistry has to offer, combined with a patient-centered attitude. Dentistry is both a science, as well as an art. It was never meant to be practiced at high speed and high volume. Our laser allows us to work on a microscopic level that was unachievable before, conserving more of your healthy tooth structure. But this level of precision demands a slow and careful approach that high volume, HMO type practices cannot deliver. On the other hand, the art of dentistry demands lifelike beauty, which requires an eye for detail. Beauty and precision require cutting-edge technology, skill, time, and above all a commitment to excellence by a doctor who cares about your needs.

Comprehensive, high technology care is the hallmark of our practice. Your oral health is more than just your teeth. At The Dayspring Center for Laser Dentistry, all our exams (including emergencies) are comprehensive. We will review your medical and dental histories, and check your blood pressure. In addition we screen for oral cancer and TMJ disorders. Drs. Matthew and Kathleen Bickel have attended numerous continuing education programs to better care for your oral health.

On Insurance:

We participate with Delta Dental and Blue Cross/Blue Shield of New Jersey Traditional Plan. We believe that insurance companies should have no say in which dentist you choose, or what treatment you receive. Your treatment is between you and your dentist, and an insurance company cannot diagnose your needs. We do not participate in any HMO plans, and many patients ask why.

The reason is simple: Their rate of reimbursement is too low. Most dental offices have about 60-70% overhead. If an HMO pays 50% of your regular fee, how can the dentist stay in business? The answer to that is simple also: Volume, volume, volume. HMO dentists must see many more patients in a day to make that type of insurance work. Also, costs must be cut elsewhere by using cheap, or even substandard laboratories and materials. Often HMO dentists fail to diagnose necessary treatment, either because they are rushing, or they purposefully fail to inform patients of needed treatment. The less treatment done on an HMO patient, the more money the dentist makes.

You see, with an HMO, dentists receive what is called a "capitation payment". They receive a fixed amount per month for each patient on their "list", which is usually around $4 per month. That's right, $4 per month. Therefore, the dentist receives the fee for ONE check-up and cleaning approximately every 3 years. Therefore, the only way for the dentist to make money with an HMO plan is to limit the amount of treatment performed, and the time spent performing it. This type of arrangement does not benefit the patient's oral health, and often we see patients who have gone to HMO offices for years, and their dental health has suffered greatly for it. Above all else, the quality of your oral health is our top priority.

©2004 Dayspring Dental. All Rights reserved.