Robert K Rickey, DDS in Oklahoma City: General Dentistry and Preventive Care

Robert K Rickey, DDS operates a general dentistry practice in Oklahoma City focused on preventive and restorative care for adult and adolescent patients, handling routine cleanings, fillings, root canals, and extractions without requiring a referral.

What the practice actually is

Robert K Rickey, DDS is an independent general dentistry office. General dentists manage preventive visits (cleanings and exams), cavity treatment, basic periodontal work, and tooth extractions. They do not perform orthodontics, implant surgery, or advanced cosmetic work; patients needing those services receive a referral. The practice accepts new patients and operates on a direct-pay and insurance model, meaning most patients either pay out of pocket or rely on their dental insurance to cover a percentage of fees.

Services and pricing

Preventive visits typically include an exam and cleaning. A standard prophylaxis (cleaning) with X-rays ranges from $100 to $150 for uninsured patients in Oklahoma City; with dental insurance, your cost depends on whether your plan covers preventive care at 100 percent (common) or requires a copay. Fillings start around $100 to $200 per tooth, depending on size and material (composite resin is standard; amalgam is less common but cheaper). Root canal treatment ranges from $800 to $1,400 depending on tooth location and complexity, often performed in one or two visits. Extractions vary by tooth type and difficulty, with simple extractions running $75 to $200 and surgical extractions (impacted or fractured teeth) $200 to $500. Confirm all figures with the office, as fees shift based on material costs and individual clinical needs.

How it compares to other Oklahoma City general dentistry options

Oklahoma City has independent general practices and practices affiliated with larger dental groups. At independent practices like Rickey's, you typically see one dentist for continuity and build a direct relationship, though scheduling may depend on one provider's availability. Larger group practices, such as those under the Aspen Dental or Britt Dental banners operating in Oklahoma City, often offer same-day appointments and shorter waits but assign you to available hygienists and dentists rather than a consistent provider. Rickey's practice suits patients who value continuity and a smaller-office setting; group practices suit those prioritizing fast scheduling and extended hours. Both generally accept the same major insurance plans and charge similar preventive fees.

Who it suits and who it does not suit

This practice serves patients seeking routine preventive care, cavity treatment, and basic extractions. It suits adults and teenagers with established dental health or early-stage decay and those who prefer a single provider. It does not suit patients who need orthodontic care, dental implants, or complex cosmetic work; they will be referred elsewhere. Patients with severe dental anxiety may find the independent setting less overwhelming than a high-volume group, but the practice's ability to accommodate anxious patients (nitrous oxide, longer appointment slots) should be confirmed directly.

What the first visit involves

A new-patient appointment includes a full-mouth exam, periodontal screening (checking gum health), and typically digital X-rays if not done elsewhere in the past year. The dentist reviews your dental and medical history, discusses any current symptoms or concerns, and explains findings. A cleaning may occur during this visit or be scheduled separately if significant work or further evaluation is needed. Expect the appointment to last 60 to 90 minutes. Bring your insurance card and photo ID; if uninsured, discuss payment options and whether the office offers payment plans.

Insurance and out-of-pocket costs

Most dental insurance plans in Oklahoma classify preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays) at 100 percent coverage with no copay. Basic restorative work (fillings) is typically covered at 80 percent after a small copay or deductible. Major procedures (root canals, extractions) often fall to 50 percent coverage after the deductible. If you don't have insurance, ask about a fee schedule; some practices offer small discounts for paying in full at the time of service. Many independent practices also offer in-house payment plans or accept third-party financing companies like CareCredit.

Hours, parking, and logistics

Verify current hours by calling or checking the office website, as general practices in Oklahoma City typically operate Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with limited or no Saturday hours. Parking details depend on the specific office location within the city; confirm whether there is free lot parking or street parking. Ask whether the practice accommodates emergency same-day or urgent appointments if you experience tooth pain between scheduled visits.

Robert K Rickey, DDS fills a straightforward need in Oklahoma City: competent, accessible general dentistry without the overhead or turnover of a large group, and without the specialized cost of a cosmetic or surgical practice.