HMO dental plan? what???

I was trying to make an appointment with a periodontist but i was DENIED the permission to do so because i wasnt referred to see a periodontist by my GENERAL DENTIST! (which i dont even have!) i mean, my gums are red and they bleed, isnt it OBVIOUS that i need to see a gum specialist? they also said they didnt recognize my plan (Avia dental plan) but their office is on the dentalplans.com SITE as a LISTING!!! the lady told me to find out if its a HMO plan and i dont even know if it is or not.what should i do!

HMO dental plan? what???
Call your insurance company. They'll tell you if you have HMO or PPO or it shows what kind of plan you have on your dental card. If you do not have one, give them a call and request one. Also tell you what your General Dentist is or give you a list to choose. Ask to get a benefits booklet also so you have that for future reference. The number is on the back of your card. If they need a referral, book an appt with the dentist first. The insurance company prob needs the record from the dentist and to make sure that is what needs to be done. Start by giving your insurance a call first. Good luck!