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3 Things to Know About Dental Insurance

dental insurance tips, dentist meeting with a patient

With the new year comes the reset of dental insurance benefits. Understanding your dental insurance is key to making smart choices about your oral health. Here are three dental insurance tips to keep in mind to help you maximize your dental dental this year!

    1. Coverage and Limitations

    Dental insurance plans can be quite different, so it’s crucial to know what your plan covers. While most plans take care of preventive services like cleanings and exams, the extent of coverage for restorative work and orthodontic treatments varies. Make sure you’re also clear about any deductibles, co-pays, and annual maximums to avoid surprises and plan your dental care effectively.

    2. Out-of-Network vs. In-Network Providers

    Choosing an in-network dentist can save you money. These providers have agreed upon fees with your insurance company, which means lower costs for you. Always check if your dentist is in-network before scheduling to make the most of your insurance coverage and reduce your expenses.

    3. Preventive Services for Long-Term Savings

    Investing in preventive dental care is a smart move for both your health and wallet. Most insurance plans cover services like cleanings, exams, and X-rays, which can help catch issues early and avoid more expensive treatments down the line. So, don’t leave that money on the table! Make the most of these benefits to keep your smile healthy throughout the year.

Dental Insurance, In-House Membership, and More at CarolinasDentist

No matter if you have dental insurance or prefer a different payment method, regular preventive checkups are crucial. Staying on top of your dental health maximizes your insurance benefits and helps with budgeting. If you have any questions about more dental insurance tips or our payment options, feel free to reach out to us!

Image: Dr. Amruta Bahekar, DDS explains treatment with a patient at our Fayetteville location.

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.