According to the National Kidney Foundation, dental infections can worsen kidney health and even delay or prevent kidney transplant approval. For the more than 37 million Americans living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), regular dental care is not just about a healthy smile — it is a critical part of managing their overall health.
If you are a Gold Kidney Health Plan member in Arizona searching for a trusted dentist who accepts your coverage, East Valley Dental Professionals (EVDP) in Mesa is ready to serve you. This guide walks you through exactly how Gold Kidney dental benefits work, what services are covered, and why EVDP has been the East Valley’s trusted dental home for over 40 years.
What Gold Kidney Health Plan Dental Coverage Is — Through Real-World Benefits
Gold Kidney Health Plan is a specialized Medicare Advantage organization licensed to operate in Arizona and Florida. According to Gold Kidney’s official website (goldkidney.com), the plan is uniquely designed for individuals living with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, and chronic heart failure (CHF). What sets Gold Kidney apart is its integration of dental coverage as a core supplemental benefit — not an afterthought.
Dental Benefits Included in Gold Kidney Arizona Plans
Based on the 2025 Gold Kidney of Arizona Gold Heart & Diabetes (HMO-POS C-SNP) Summary of Benefits published on goldkidney.com, members receive comprehensive dental coverage with $0 copays across the following services:
- Preventive dental exams: $0 copay in-network and out-of-network
- Cleanings: $0 copay in-network and out-of-network
- Fluoride treatments: $0 copay in-network and out-of-network
- X-rays and diagnostic services: $0 copay in-network and out-of-network
- Restorative services: $0 copay in-network (unlimited visits per year)
- Endodontics (root canals): $0 copay in-network (unlimited visits per year)
- Periodontics (gum treatment): $0 copay in-network (unlimited visits per year)
- Prosthodontics (dentures): $0 copay in-network (unlimited visits per year)
Additionally, Gold Kidney’s Arizona plans include a combined flexible dental, hearing, and vision benefits allowance of up to $700 per quarter (as documented in the 2025 Summary of Benefits). This quarterly Flex Card allowance through the Alivi Gold Kidney Prepaid Visa® Card allows members to pay for dental services at the provider of their choice with no network restrictions and no insurance claims to submit, according to goldkidney.com/flex-card-benefits.
For members enrolled in the Gold Kidney Dialysis & Kidney plans, dental coverage can reach up to $5,000 for dental services, as stated on the Gold Kidney kidney care plans page (goldkidney.com/kidneycareplans).
How East Valley Dental Professionals Serves Gold Kidney Members
East Valley Dental Professionals, located at 2058 S Dobson Road, Suite 12, Mesa, AZ 85202, has been serving the East Valley community since 1984, when Dr. Brinkman first opened the practice. According to EVDP’s official website (evdp.net), the practice is now led by Dr. Nathan Smith, a graduate of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine — one of the nation’s top dental programs with a 5% acceptance rate.
Insurance Acceptance and Medicare Advantage Compatibility
“We accept most Medicare Advantage plans at East Valley Dental Professionals. I always recommend patients verify we’re in-network before switching plans. Over 40 years, we’ve built relationships with most major carriers serving Mesa to ensure our patients maximize benefits.” — Dr. Nathan Smith, as quoted on evdp.net
EVDP’s homepage prominently displays a banner reading “Now Accepting Devoted Insurance for Medicare,” confirming the practice’s active engagement with Medicare Advantage insurance providers. The practice accepts most major PPO networks, as noted in EVDP’s senior dental care guide published on evdp.net.
Why the Gold Kidney Flex Card Makes Access Simple
One of the most significant advantages for Gold Kidney members visiting EVDP is Gold Kidney’s Flex Card benefit. According to Gold Kidney’s official Flex Card Benefits page (goldkidney.com/flex-card-benefits), members can use their Alivi Gold Kidney Prepaid Visa® Card allowance to pay for dental exams and procedures at the provider of their choice. The card functions like any standard Visa card, meaning dental offices do not need to be enrolled in a specific network to accept payment.
As noted in a 2023 PR Newswire press release from Gold Kidney, the Flex Card allowance comes with “no network limitations for dental, vision, and hearing,” allowing members to choose how they spend their allowance. Gregg Kunemund, Gold Kidney’s Arizona and Florida Chief Operating Officer, stated in that release that their priority is empowering members to make choices that lead to healthier lives.
Why Dental Care Is Critical for Kidney Disease Patients: The Medical Evidence
The connection between kidney disease and oral health is well-documented in medical research. According to the National Kidney Foundation (kidney.org), dental cavities and gum diseases are chronic bacterial infections that create continuous inflammation — which is particularly harmful for people with compromised kidney function.
Key Research Findings
- Bidirectional link: A cross-sectional study published in Applied Sciences (October 2025) found a significant inverse relationship between kidney filtration rate (eGFR) and periodontal disease severity. Patients with advanced CKD exhibited higher prevalence of gum inflammation and more severe periodontal disease.
- Gum inflammation impacts kidney function: Research cited by oral health professionals found that a 10% increase in gum inflammation was associated with a 3% reduction in kidney function, suggesting that treating gum disease may help improve kidney health outcomes.
- Oral hygiene reduces CKD risk: A nationwide retrospective cohort study published in PMC (2021) following 158,495 participants found that periodontal disease and tooth loss were positively correlated with elevated CKD risk, while increased tooth brushing frequency and professional dental scaling were associated with decreased CKD occurrence.
- Transplant requirement: The National Kidney Foundation notes that a dental health exam is required as part of the kidney transplant evaluation process. Serious dental infections can delay or even prevent approval for a kidney transplant.
This medical evidence underscores why Gold Kidney Health Plan includes comprehensive dental benefits as a supplemental benefit. For CKD and ESRD patients, dental care is not optional — it is an essential part of disease management.
Measurable Benefits: What Gold Kidney Members Can Expect at EVDP
Cost Savings Breakdown
Based on Gold Kidney’s published 2025 Summary of Benefits for Arizona and EVDP’s publicly available information, here is what Gold Kidney members can expect when visiting East Valley Dental Professionals:
- Preventive visits: $0 copay for exams, cleanings, fluoride, and X-rays (covered under Gold Kidney’s preventive dental benefit)
- Quarterly Flex Card allowance: Up to $700 per quarter ($2,800 annually) for dental, hearing, and vision combined — with rollover in 2025 plans
- Comprehensive dental: $0 copay for restorative, endodontics, periodontics, and prosthodontics services in-network
- EVDP Membership alternative: For services exceeding plan coverage, EVDP offers its own membership plan with a 30% discount on most services, as detailed on evdp.net/membership
According to EVDP’s senior dental care blog, typical dental costs in the Mesa area include crowns ranging from $1,000 to $2,000 each and single implants costing $3,000 to $5,000. Gold Kidney’s $0 copay structure and Flex Card allowance can significantly offset these costs for members who need restorative or complex dental work.
Patient Experience at EVDP
EVDP’s track record with patients is documented through reviews published on their website and third-party platforms:
- Neal W., a patient for 15 years, shared on evdp.net: “I couldn’t imagine going elsewhere. Everyone is professional, kind and the best of the best.”
- Catherine K. noted: “They are always friendly, attentive, have quick service and respond quickly to questions.”
- Chelsea P. stated: “EVDP is amazing, the patient care is top notch and they do beautiful work.”
Services Available to Gold Kidney Members at East Valley Dental Professionals
According to evdp.net/dental-procedure, EVDP provides a comprehensive range of services that align with Gold Kidney’s covered dental benefits:
- Preventive care: Routine exams, professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and digital X-rays
- Restorative dentistry: Fillings, crowns, and bridges performed in-house by Dr. Smith
- Endodontics: Root canal therapy using modern tools and techniques — with evdp.net noting that 22.3 million root canals are performed annually in the U.S. (per the American Association of Endodontists)
- Periodontics: Gum disease treatment — particularly important for CKD patients given the documented bidirectional link between periodontal disease and kidney health
- Prosthodontics: Dentures and other removable dental appliances
- Dental implants: Dr. Smith performs implant procedures in-house, eliminating expensive specialist referrals
- Cosmetic dentistry: Teeth whitening and smile enhancement procedures
Dr. Smith’s ability to perform both general and surgical procedures in-house is a significant advantage for Gold Kidney members. As stated on evdp.net, patients do not need expensive specialist referrals because Dr. Smith handles implants, crowns, bridges, root canals, and extractions that would otherwise require an orthodontist or oral surgeon.
Step-by-Step Guide: Using Your Gold Kidney Dental Benefits at EVDP
Based on publicly documented processes from both Gold Kidney Health Plan and EVDP, here is a practical guide for Gold Kidney members:
Step 1: Verify your dental benefits. Call Gold Kidney Member Services at 1-844-294-6535 (TTY 711) to confirm your specific plan’s dental coverage details, including Flex Card balance and quarterly allowance amounts.
Step 2: Check your Flex Card balance. Log into goldkidney.alivi.com or download the Alivi app from the Apple or Android store to view your current allowance balance and purchase history.
Step 3: Contact East Valley Dental Professionals. Call EVDP at (480) 838-3033 or visit evdp.net to schedule your appointment. Mention that you are a Gold Kidney Health Plan member so the front desk team can guide you on payment options.
Step 4: Bring your Flex Card to the appointment. Gold Kidney’s Flex Card works like a standard Visa card at any dental office. No insurance claim submission is required. Simply present your Alivi Gold Kidney Prepaid Visa® Card at checkout.
Step 5: Schedule regular preventive visits. Given the documented connection between oral health and kidney disease, the National Kidney Foundation recommends dental exams at least twice per year. Gold Kidney covers preventive dental at $0 copay, making regular visits financially accessible.
Step 6: Discuss your medical history with Dr. Smith. The National Kidney Foundation emphasizes that patients should inform their dentist about their kidney disease diagnosis, medications, and dialysis status. EVDP’s team is experienced with senior patients who have complex medical histories, serving the Mesa community since 1984.
About East Valley Dental Professionals: Four Decades of Community Trust
East Valley Dental Professionals was founded in 1984 by Dr. Brinkman in Mesa, Arizona. According to evdp.net/about-us, Dr. Brinkman passed away in April 2016 after a courageous battle with cancer. His daughter Jennifer has maintained the family’s involvement in the practice, and Dr. Nathan Smith now leads clinical operations.
Key facts about EVDP, as documented on evdp.net:
- Location: 2058 S Dobson Road, Suite 12, Mesa, AZ 85202 (Dobson Ranch area)
- Phone: (480) 838-3033
- Hours: Monday through Thursday, 6:30 AM to 2:00 PM
- Service area: Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding East Valley communities
- Experience: Over 40 years serving the East Valley, with staff members who have been with the practice for over 25 years
- Lead hygienist: Myra, who graduated with Highest Distinction and scored in the 98th percentile on her National Boards (per evdp.net)
The practice also serves snowbirds — seasonal visitors from states like Minnesota, Illinois, and Washington, as well as Canada — who trust EVDP for ongoing and emergency dental care while spending time in the Valley, according to EVDP’s service areas page.
Conclusion
The National Kidney Foundation’s warning is clear: for kidney disease patients, dental infections are not minor inconveniences — they are serious health threats that can worsen kidney function and even jeopardize transplant eligibility. Gold Kidney Health Plan addresses this directly by including $0 copay dental coverage and flexible quarterly allowances of up to $700 that members can spend at the dental provider of their choice.
East Valley Dental Professionals in Mesa, AZ, has spent more than 40 years building the kind of trusted, personalized dental practice that Gold Kidney members deserve. With Dr. Nathan Smith’s expertise in both general and surgical dental procedures, a compassionate team experienced in treating seniors with complex medical histories, and a convenient Dobson Ranch location serving the entire East Valley, EVDP is positioned to help Gold Kidney members protect both their oral health and their kidney health.
Your Next Step: Call East Valley Dental Professionals at (480) 838-3033 or visit evdp.net to schedule a dental evaluation. Bring your Gold Kidney Alivi Flex Card, and take the first step toward protecting the health connection that matters most.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does East Valley Dental Professionals accept Gold Kidney Health Plan insurance?
EVDP accepts most Medicare Advantage plans and works with patients using Flex Cards. Gold Kidney’s Alivi Prepaid Visa® Card works like a standard Visa card at any dental office. Call EVDP at (480) 838-3033 to confirm details for your specific plan.
2. What dental services does Gold Kidney Health Plan cover at $0 copay?
According to Gold Kidney’s 2025 Arizona Summary of Benefits, covered services include preventive exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments, X-rays, restorative services, endodontics, periodontics, and prosthodontics — all at $0 copay in-network.
3. How much is the Gold Kidney dental Flex Card allowance?
Gold Kidney’s Arizona plans provide a combined flexible dental, hearing, and vision allowance of up to $700 per quarter ($2,800 annually). Dialysis & Kidney plans may include up to $5,000 in dental coverage. Allowances roll over quarter to quarter for 2025 plans.
4. Why is dental care especially important for kidney disease patients?
The National Kidney Foundation states that dental infections create chronic inflammation that harms kidneys. Research shows a 10% increase in gum inflammation correlates with a 3% reduction in kidney function. A dental exam is also required for kidney transplant evaluation.
5. Where is East Valley Dental Professionals located?
EVDP is at 2058 S Dobson Road, Suite 12, Mesa, AZ 85202, in the Dobson Ranch area. They serve Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, and surrounding East Valley communities. Hours: Monday–Thursday, 6:30 AM–2:00 PM.
Disclaimer: This article references publicly available information from East Valley Dental Professionals (evdp.net), Gold Kidney Health Plan (goldkidney.com), the National Kidney Foundation (kidney.org), and published medical research from Applied Sciences, PMC, and the American Academy for Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH), dated 2021–2025. All metrics and quotes are from documented sources. Results described are specific to the organizations and plans mentioned and may vary based on individual plan enrollment, coverage year, and implementation approach. Gold Kidney Health Plan benefits, including dental coverage and Flex Card allowances, are subject to plan terms and CMS contract renewal. For current information about any products or services mentioned, consult the official websites. This article is not intended as medical or insurance advice. Always verify coverage details with Gold Kidney Member Services at 1-844-294-6535 (TTY 711) and confirm provider acceptance by calling East Valley Dental Professionals at (480) 838-3033.