Welcome to the FAQ section for Slate Dental in Washington, DC. We have compiled answers to the most common questions regarding our concierge scheduling, insurance submission, and clinical philosophy.
The Concierge & “Ideal Dentistry” Experience
What is “Ideal Dentistry” and how does it benefit me?
Ideal dentistry is a clinical philosophy focused on long-term health, structural integrity, and aesthetic harmony rather than “patchwork” or temporary repairs. Instead of short, rushed appointments typical of high-volume offices, Dr. Slate dedicates 60 to 90 minutes per patient to ensure every restoration is precise, functionally sound, and built to last.
What does it mean to be a “Concierge” dental practice?
As a concierge practice, we prioritize your time and comfort above all else. For our patients in Foxhall Square and Northwest DC, this means zero wait times in our lobby and direct, 1-on-1 access to Dr. Slate throughout your entire visit. Our boutique model allows us to focus on the quality of care for each individual rather than the daily patient volume.
Do you see one patient at a time?
Yes — always. We never double-book. When you are in the chair, you have Dr. Slate’s undivided attention for the full duration of your appointment. This is a core part of how we operate, not an upsell.
Insurance & International Benefits
Do you accept my dental insurance?
We are in-network with Cigna PPO, and we provide full concierge claim filing for all other PPO and international plans. We handle the coding, submission, and follow-up so that you receive the maximum reimbursement check directly from your carrier.
Which insurance plans do you work with?
We have experience with a wide range of domestic PPO plans and specialize in the international plans used by DC’s diplomatic and global professional community, including:
- Aetna International
- Cigna Global
- Henner
- Global Excel
- World Bank MIP / RMIP
- IDB (Inter-American Development Bank) staff plans
- Foreign Service / embassy staff benefits
- Most domestic PPO plans (out-of-network reimbursement)
Our team understands the specific superbill and coding requirements these carriers demand, ensuring your claim is processed correctly the first time. For a full breakdown, please visit our Payments & Insurance page.
Do you work with World Bank, IMF, and Embassy staff specifically?
Yes. This is one of our specialties. We are located in Foxhall Square — convenient to the IMF, World Bank, and the Embassy Row corridor. We file your Aetna International, Cigna Global, and Henner claims directly, and we understand the specific documentation these plans require. You do not need to manage the paperwork — we handle it for you. Learn more about our international patient services.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. We believe finances should not be a barrier to world-class health. We offer:
- In-House Financing: Interest-free payment plans for up to 6 months for qualified patients.
- Cherry (Preferred): We partner with Cherry to offer flexible monthly payments with instant approval and no hard credit check.
- TuaPay: We also offer financing through TuaPay for extended repayment plans.
Scheduling & Emergency Access
How do I schedule an appointment?
We respect your time and offer a seamless digital booking experience. You can view our real-time availability and book your exclusive slot immediately using our online portal.
Do you run on time?
Absolutely. In our practice, your appointment time is reserved only for you. We do not double-book. This ensures you are seen exactly when scheduled and have Dr. Slate’s undivided attention for the duration of your visit.
How quickly can Dr. Slate accommodate emergency appointments?
Dr. Slate reserves dedicated time every single day specifically for same-day emergency dental appointments in our Foxhall Square office. Whether you have a broken tooth, a lost crown, or sudden pain, our team works to provide immediate, concierge-level relief for our DC neighbors as quickly as possible. Please call us at (202) 686-5222.
Do you accept emergency patients who are not currently active in the practice?
Yes. We welcome new patients seeking a higher standard of emergency care. We frequently accommodate same-day visits for urgent restorative needs, providing a calm and private alternative to high-volume clinics for patients in Spring Valley, Wesley Heights, and American University Park.
Second Opinions & Complex Cases
I was told I need a tooth extracted. Can you save it?
Saving teeth that other offices have labeled “hopeless” is one of Dr. Slate’s core specialties. Using advanced adhesive protocols and high-magnification techniques, we can often rebuild teeth that traditional dentistry would extract — teeth broken to the gumline, failed crowns with deep decay, and structurally compromised roots. Before you commit to an irreversible extraction, let us assess whether your natural tooth can be saved. Read more about our second opinion approach.
Do I need my X-rays to get a second opinion?
No. We handle the paperwork for you. Here is our process:
- Schedule your consult online or by phone.
- We send you a secure digital release form via text or email.
- You sign it on your phone in seconds.
- We contact your previous dentist directly to transfer your X-rays and records.
You do not need to be the middleman. We remove every administrative barrier so you can focus on making the best decision for your tooth. If you prefer to keep your second opinion confidential, that is completely understandable — we can take new radiographs at your consultation appointment if warranted, so you never need to contact your current provider.
I was told I need full dentures. Should I get a second opinion?
Yes. Many patients referred to us have been told removable dentures are their only option. In a significant number of cases, Dr. Slate has been able to offer fixed, permanent alternatives — implants, bridges, or full-mouth reconstruction that does not involve removing your teeth at night. A consultation costs nothing and gives you the information you need to make the right long-term decision. Learn about full mouth reconstruction at Slate Dental.
Do you restore dental implants placed by other surgeons?
Yes. Dr. Slate specializes in custom implant restoration. We coordinate the entire process by teaming up with specialists who have been hand-selected by Dr. Slate based on their expertise, skill, and location. This ensures the surgical phase is handled by the absolute best specialist for your needs, while Dr. Slate designs and places your final custom crown or bridge. For existing implants placed elsewhere, bring your records and we will assess restorability at your consultation.
Why do you require a comprehensive exam for new patients?
We require a comprehensive exam mostly to ensure we start off on the right fit. By taking the time to identify all possible data points — from your complete dental history to your personal goals — we ensure we are making the best recommendations for your custom-tailored treatments and dental experience.
Finding Slate Dental & What to Expect as a New Patient
Where are you located and is parking available?
We are located at Foxhall Square in Washington, DC — convenient to Spring Valley, Wesley Heights, American University Park, Palisades, and Georgetown. Foxhall Square offers a covered garage with valet service, so you never have to search for street parking. Elevator access is available directly from both the lobby and garage levels.
I found you through a Google ad. What should I expect when I call?
A real person answers — not a call center. You will speak with a member of Dr. Slate’s team who can answer clinical questions, confirm insurance eligibility, and schedule your appointment. If you found us searching for a specific service — emergency care, second opinion, implants, or international insurance — just mention it and we will make sure the right appointment type is reserved for you.
I am an IMF, World Bank, or embassy employee. What do I need to bring?
Just your insurance card and a list of any current dental concerns. Our team will handle pre-authorization, claim coding, and follow-up with your carrier (Aetna International, Cigna Global, Henner, Global Excel, or World Bank MIP/RMIP) directly. You do not need to navigate the paperwork.
I am in pain and not sure whether I need emergency care or a regular appointment. What should I do?
Call us at (202) 686-5222 and describe what you are experiencing. We will help you determine the right appointment type and get you in as quickly as possible. If you have a broken tooth, severe pain, a lost crown, or a tooth that knocked out — call immediately rather than booking online, so we can triage and reserve same-day time for you.
Still have questions? We answer them directly.
Dr. Slate’s team is available by phone and email. For urgent dental situations, always call — we reserve same-day time for emergencies every day.