Find an in-network dentist from over 1,000 insurance plans

Add your insurance to see in-network doctors
insurance link for 223
insurance link for 222
insurance link for 212
insurance link for 239
insurance link for 235
See all (1,000+)
64 verified UnitedHealthcare Dentists in Cornelius, NC
Zocdoc verifies all providers before they can appear in Zocdoc search results. Every provider that appears in search is open to new patients.
In-network providersInsurance logo
Availability last updated 07/19/2026
Availability last updated 07/19/2026
Periodontist
4.82
·17 reviews
30 mi · 7751 Ballantyne Commons Pkwy, Ste 101, Charlotte, NC 28277
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Parsons received his dental degree from the University of Florida where he graduated with highest honors and third in his class. He then attended a three year residency in advanced Periodontics training at the University of Florida where he served as chief resident for two years. After completin...Click to read more
Dentist
5.00
·9 reviews
38 mi · 1721 Ebenezer Rd, Ste 105, Rock Hill, SC 29732
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Ann Kirol graduated in 1998 from the Medical College of Virginia, School of Dentistry. Following graduation, she completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency at the University of Louisville in Kentucky. She moved to the Charlotte area in 1999 where she began her practice in gen...Click to read more
Dentist
38 mi · 1721 Ebenezer Rd, Ste 105, Rock Hill, SC 29732
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients
Dentist
52 mi · 2020 Village Link Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27103
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Dr. Rosa M. Muñoz Aldape is a board-certified General Dentist born and raised in Candor, NC. She attended UNC Chapel Hill and received her Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene with a Minor in Spanish for the Medical Professions in 2015. After graduation, she worked as a dental hygienist for two yea...Click to read more
Dentist
4.96
·47 reviews
I have severe dental trauma, that being said it took months to build up the courage to go in and handle a broken tooth causing me pain. This office was well worth the drive, everyone was so kind and more than happy to give me a step by step to lessen anxiety! They were so invested in making sure tha...Click to read more
52 mi · 2020 Village Link Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27103
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Please note that we do not accept: NC Tracks, State-Funded/Medicaid and DMO plans. Dr. Lauren Meek is a dedicated general dentist. She is a part of University Dental Associates, located in Winston-Salem, NC. She earned her doctor of dental surgery degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, wh...Click to read more
Dentist
4.77
·30 reviews
59 mi · 336 E Hanes Mill Rd, Winston Salem, NC 27105
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
At Harvard School of Public Health Summer Program in Quantitative Sciences, Dr. Jackson, Jr. learned how science and math can have an intimate relationship, and he pursued post-graduate education at the New York University College of Dentistry. To become a true master, he knew more was needed of him...Click to read more
Dentist
5.00
·1 review
59 mi · 336 E Hanes Mill Rd, Winston Salem, NC 27105
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­Tanner Wolf grew up in Sanford NC. He earned his Bachelor's degree in 2017 at Appalachian State University, and his DDS/DMD at East Carolina University. Dr. Wolf entered the dental field because he enjoyed the opportunity to connect with patients and serve the community. Hi...Click to read more
Dentist
59 mi · 336 E Hanes Mill Rd, Winston Salem, NC 27105
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Dr. Rahen Kakadia is a dentist at Ideal Dental, caring for patients in Winston Salem, Kannapolis, and Huntersville, NC. He provides general dental services for individuals and families, from routine checkups and cleanings to ongoing support for oral health needs. He completed his dental degree at t...Click to read more
Dentist
4.75
·16 reviews
59 mi · 336 E Hanes Mill Rd, Winston Salem, NC 27105
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Deepthi Sree Racha is a dentist at Ideal Dental, seeing patients in Winston-Salem and High Point, NC. She cares for individuals and families who need routine checkups, cleanings, and help with everyday dental concerns, as well as ongoing care. She welcomes people with a wide range of dental his...Click to read more
Dentist
4.74
·53 reviews
The office staff was very nice and understands the need of a senior citizen. - Apr 3, 2024 by Nirmalya D.Click to read more
62 mi · 2021 Eastchester Dr, High Point, NC 27265
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Ioana Pogacean earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Loma Linda University in California in 2010. She enjoys practicing all areas of general dentistry for pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients, including esthetic dentistry, crowns, implant restorations, extractions, and dentures/par...Click to read more
Dentist
4.97
·33 reviews
"Teamwork begins by building trust. When you have the ability to affect other people and be somebody that somebody wants to emulate, care enough to help somebody else for their benefit, that's what makes you a good teammate, and that's what this team work is - Jun 8, 2022 by Soledad G.Click to read more
62 mi · 2021 Eastchester Dr, High Point, NC 27265
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Camacho graduated from New York University College of Dentistry with a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in 1992. He also completed a one-year fellowship program in Temporomandibular Disorders (TMJ) at New York University that same year. Since then, he has been practicing in Mayaguez, PR, an...Click to read more
Dentist (Virtual)
5.00
·18 reviews
The team was exceptional, from the front office staff to the dentist , to the owner. They explained everything thoroughly and listened intently to all my questions. - Feb 27, 2026 by Tamara D.Click to read more
Watha, NC
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
She is passionate about making every guest feel confident in their smile—and comfortable in her chair. Known for her gentle touch and upbeat energy, she blends expert clinical skills with a warm, down-to-earth approach that puts guests at ease. A proud Texas native, Dr. Seriki completed her Doctorat...Click to read more
Dentist
4.96
·26 reviews
was called in right away when i arrived, staff and Dr very pleasant great costumer service - May 24, 2026 by jeminatu. B.Click to read more
27.5 mi · 7227 Pineville-Matthews Rd, Ste 200, Charlotte, NC 28226
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Minti Agarwal is an expert restorative and cosmetic dentist with over 13 years of clinical experience. A graduate of the world-renowned UCSF School of Dentistry, she was inducted into the Omicron Kappa Upsilon (OKU) National Dental Honor Society—a distinction reserved for the top tier of the den...Click to read more
Next available: Wed, Jul 22
Dentist
4.95
·42 reviews
Dr Baker and team are absolutely wonderful. The ease at which they care for people is very impressive. - Oct 11, 2024 by Thomas M.Click to read more
27.5 mi · 13557 Steelecroft Pkwy, Suite 2400, Charlotte, NC 28278
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Britany Baker has been in dentistry since 2016 and joined the Catawba Valley Dental Care team in 2020. She has dreamed of being a dentist since she was a little girl growing up in the dentist's office where her mother worked as a dental hygienist. Dr. Baker is passionate about forming personal r...Click to read more
Dentist
4.89
·109 reviews
The office was clean, was seen on time and the staff was attentive. - Oct 27, 2020 by Melinda P.Click to read more
27.5 mi · 13557 Steelecroft Pkwy, Suite 2400, Charlotte, NC 28278
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
“I love my career, meeting and working with so many new and unique people. As a dentist trained at the University of Iowa with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, I am able to enjoy one-on-one face time with my patients and really get to know them and their families. I strive to make a positive impac...Click to read more
Dentist
5.00
·2 reviews
Excellent doctor and clinic. I am extremely happy with how Dr Arati took care of my teeth. Highly recommended. - Jul 10, 2025Click to read more
27.5 mi · 7221 Pineville-Matthews Rd, Ste 100, Charlotte, NC 28226
In-network · UnitedHealthcare
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Arati Shrestha is committed to providing the highest standard of care by staying up to date with the latest advancements in dentistry. She actively participates in continuing education courses and dental conferences to enhance her skills and knowledge. Dr. Shrestha earned her Doctor of Dental Me...Click to read more
Out-of-network providers
Availability last updated 07/19/2026
Availability last updated 07/19/2026
Dentist
4.83
·178 reviews
Loved it. Dr. Payet was super thorough, kind and friendly. I am glad he’s my provider. - Jan 12, 2023 by Janae B.Click to read more
22 mi · 4601 Park Rd, Suite 175, Charlotte, NC 28209
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
We accept all insurances except Medicaid and HMO plans. Dr. Payet was chosen by Kleer as one of 2018’s Most Influential Dentists in America. Of the thousands of dentists in the US, only 156 were selected for this honor, just 3 from North Carolina, and Dr. Payet is the only one from Charlotte. Thi...Click to read more
Next available: Mon, Jul 27
Dentist
5.00
·4 reviews
My experience overall was amazing from the time I walked in until the time I walked out . Everyone was pretty engaging and the office has a very peaceful vibe . My wait wasn’t long and my appointment didn’t go over the time I was scheduled . The office also wasn’t hard to find once I got there . - M...Click to read more
35 mi · 1619 Providence Rd S, 120, Waxhaw, NC 28173
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Sanath Kommineni is a dentist. He practices at Dental Designs of Marvin Gardens, serving patients in Waxhaw, NC. Dr. Kommineni earned his dental degree from the University of Southern California and holds memberships from the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, the Academy of Genera...Click to read more
Next available: Thu, Jul 23
Dentist
4.93
·30 reviews
4.5 mi · 150 Fairview Rd, Ste 135, Mooresville, NC 28117
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended ·
Read bio
Dr. Lane Putnam is a native of Mooresville, North Carolina. He attended the University of North Carolina and the University of North Carolina School of Dentistry. He is also a past member of the Iredell County Board of Health. He currently participates in the Give Kids a Smile program and other char...Click to read more
Dentist
4.81
·57 reviews
Everyone at the office was super kind and thoughtful, and seemed to genuinely care about my dental hygiene. Dr. Phade was very transparent and informative, making sure I understood what things meant. - Jun 27, 2024 by Nicholas T.Click to read more
20.5 mi · 3515 Randolph Rd, CharlotteNC, NC 28211
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
Dr. Phade graduated from Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Florida, in 2014 with a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. She also holds a dental degree from India. Her passion for dentistry began in childhood, inspired by her father. Growing up, she watched him practice dentistry and help patients ...Click to read more
Dentist
4.83
·178 reviews
Loved it. Dr. Payet was super thorough, kind and friendly. I am glad he’s my provider. - Jan 12, 2023 by Janae B.Click to read more
22 mi · 4601 Park Rd, Suite 175, Charlotte, NC 28209
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients · Highly recommended · Excellent wait time ·
Read bio
We accept all insurances except Medicaid and HMO plans. Dr. Payet was chosen by Kleer as one of 2018’s Most Influential Dentists in America. Of the thousands of dentists in the US, only 156 were selected for this honor, just 3 from North Carolina, and Dr. Payet is the only one from Charlotte. Thi...Click to read more
Dentist
35.5 mi · 652 Herrons Ferry Rd, Ste 105, Rock Hill, SC 29730
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Dr. Matthew Hubis attended the College of Charleston and the Medical University of South Carolina, both in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina. He is a current member of the prestigious Kois Center in Seattle, Washington where he continues his quest for knowledge to solve complex dental problems fo...Click to read more
Dentist (Virtual)
Watha, NC
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Booking with The TeleDentists is for a VIRTUAL dental consultation. The provider is a licensed Dentist practicing in the state of Michigan (MI). Their license number is (2 9 0 1 6 0 1 4 4 4). Dr. Lester is a Graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and served for two ye...Click to read more
Next available: today
Dentist (Virtual)
Watha, NC
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients · Offers video visits ·
Read bio
Booking with The TeleDentists is for a VIRTUAL dental consultation. The provider is a licensed Dentist practicing in the state of Michigan (MI). Their license number is 2​9​0​1​6​0​2​0​9​8. Dr. Eric Westergard is a dentist experienced with emergency dental treatment, oral pain & infection, cosmeti...Click to read more
Next available: today
Other providers
Availability last updated 07/19/2026
Availability last updated 07/19/2026
5710 mi · 510 S Highway 27, Stanley, NC 28164
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Micah Naylor, DMD is in Stanley, NC and Lincolnton, NC. Their offices are located in 510 S Highway 27, Stanley, NC and 518 N Generals Blvd F, Lincolnton, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 5000 Highway 49 S, Harrisburg, NC 28075
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Reid Chaney, DMD is a Primary Care Doctor in Harrisburg, NC. Their offices are located in 5000 Highway 49 S, Harrisburg, NC and Zsambeky, Chaney, and Associates Cabarru, Harrisburg, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 3090 E Highway 27, A, Lincolnton, NC 28092
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Tarah Coleman, DDS is a Primary Care Doctor in Gastonia, NC and Lincolnton, NC. Their offices are located in 309 Wesleyan Dr, Gastonia, NC and 3090 E Highway 27 A, Lincolnton, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 201 Providence Rd, Charlotte, NC 28207
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Robert Watson, DDS is a Primary Care Doctor in Charlotte, NC. Their office is located in 201 Providence Rd, Charlotte, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 201 Providence Rd, Charlotte, NC 28207
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Eric Wolfinger, DDS is a Primary Care Doctor in Charlotte, NC. Their office is located in 201 Providence Rd, Charlotte, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 201 Providence Rd, Charlotte, NC 28207
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Thomas Armstrong, DDS is a Primary Care Doctor in Charlotte, NC. Their office is located in 201 Providence Rd, Charlotte, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 2200 Randolph Rd, Charlotte, NC 28207
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Gary Heeseman, DDS is a Primary Care Doctor in Charlotte, NC. Their office is located in 2200 Randolph Rd, Charlotte, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 1014 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Lawrence Seitlin, DDS is a Primary Care Doctor in Charlotte, NC. Their office is located in 1014 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 1014 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Eric Seitlin, DDS is a Primary Care Doctor in Charlotte, NC. Their office is located in 1014 East Blvd, Charlotte, NC.Click to read more
1.00
·1 review
The reviews for Dr. Liu and the Riccobene Associates dental office reflect significant dissatisfaction with both the provider and the practice. Patients describe Dr. Liu as lacking in patient service skills, with complaints centered around poor communication and unprofessional behavior. A major issu...Read full review summary
19.5 mi · 1000 Blythe Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28203
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Chi Wei Liu, DDS is in Greensboro, NC, High Point, NC and Charlotte, NC. Their offices are located in 604 Dolley Madison Rd, Greensboro, NC, 3319 Ralston Ct, High Point, NC and 1000 Blythe Blvd, Charlotte, NC.Click to read more
Pediatric Dentist
5710 mi · 1608 Scott Ave, Charlotte, NC 28203
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Catherine Hong, DDS is a Pediatric Dentist in Charlotte, NC. Their office is located in 1608 Scott Ave, Charlotte, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 6708 Albemarle Rd, Charlotte, NC 28212
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Prashant Rao, DDS is a Primary Care Doctor in Charlotte, NC. Their offices are located in 202 E Woodlawn Rd 114, Charlotte, NC, 6708 Albemarle Rd, Charlotte, NC and 16615 Riverstone Way 200, Charlotte, NC.Click to read more
5710 mi · 724 Bryant St, Statesville, NC 28677
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Christopher Dirig, DDS is in Statesville, NC. Their office is located in 724 Bryant St, Statesville, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 571 Cox Rd, Gastonia, NC 28054
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Jonathan Blowe, DDM is a Primary Care Doctor in Gastonia, NC and Belmont, NC. Their offices are located in 571 Cox Rd, Gastonia, NC and 1030 McKee Farm Ln, Belmont, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 2557 Pembroke Rd, Gastonia, NC 28054
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Blake Kingsbury, DDM is a Primary Care Doctor in Gastonia, NC. Their office is located in 2557 Pembroke Rd, Gastonia, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 1600 E Woodlawn Rd, Charlotte, NC 28209
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Michael Gross, DDO is a Primary Care Doctor in Charlotte, NC. Their office is located in 1600 E Woodlawn Rd, Charlotte, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 1613 Montford Dr, A, Charlotte, NC 28209
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Steven Robertson, DMD is a Primary Care Doctor in Charlotte, NC. Their office is located in 1613 Montford Dr A, Charlotte, NC.Click to read more
Primary Care Doctor
5710 mi · 1435 N Aspen St, Lincolnton, NC 28092
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Brian Dedmond, DDS is a Primary Care Doctor in Gastonia, NC and Lincolnton, NC. Their offices are located in 816 E Franklin Blvd, Gastonia, NC, 1117 Reynards Cir, Lincolnton, NC and 1435 N Aspen St, Lincolnton, NC.Click to read more
Pediatric Dentist
5710 mi · 890 Summit Crossing Pl, Gastonia, NC 28054
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Amanda Kerns, DDS is a Pediatric Dentist in Gastonia, NC and Cornelius, NC. Their offices are located in 890 Summit Crossing Pl, Gastonia, NC, 200 E 2nd Ave, Gastonia, NC and 19242 Lake Norman Cove Dr, Cornelius, NC.Click to read more
5710 mi · 6316 E Independence Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28212
Out-of-network
Accepting new patients ·
Read bio
Jae Sung Lee, DDS is in Charlotte, NC. Their office is located in 6316 E Independence Blvd, Charlotte, NC.Click to read more
Calendar Check
1-3 days

Average time it takes to be seen by a provider

Doctor
100k

Verified providers with a 4.8 average rating

Primary Care Physician
15+ years

In the business of finding quality care for patients

Patients trust Zocdoc
Setting up the appointment on Zocdoc and being able to wait in the comfort of my bed for my Dr to see me was so much better...I HIGHLY recommend Zocdoc.
Felisha N
Zocdoc is great! Please consider using this you won't regret it. I was very, very pleased with my visit my future PCP was great!
Tracy S
Zocdoc saves me so much time I used to spend calling around to find a place that takes my insurance or finding openings with doctors on the list provided by my insurance!
Stephanie W.
National Public Radio
New York Times
Yahoo
Self.com
Verge
Wall Street Journal
Frequently asked questions

How can I make a same-day appointment with a Dentist in Cornelius who takes UnitedHealthcare insurance?

On average, patients who use Zocdoc can search for a Dentist in Cornelius who takes UnitedHealthcare insurance, book an appointment, and see the Dentist within 24 hours. Same-day appointments are often available, you can search for real-time availability of Dentists in Cornelius who accept UnitedHealthcare insurance and make an appointment online.


How can I find a Dentist in Cornelius who takes UnitedHealthcare?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Dentist in Cornelius who takes UnitedHealthcare. Just choose your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. If you’re not sure which plan you have, you can use Zocdoc’s insurance checker to find out.


How can I book an appointment online with a UnitedHealthcare Dentist in Cornelius?

Zocdoc is a free online service that helps patients find UnitedHealthcare Dentists in Cornelius and book appointments instantly. You can search for UnitedHealthcare Dentists in Cornelius by symptom or visit reason. Based on that information, you’ll see a list of providers who meet your search criteria, along with their available appointment slots.


How can I find a female Dentist in Cornelius who takes UnitedHealthcare insurance?

When you search for UnitedHealthcare Dentists in Cornelius on Zocdoc, you can filter your results by gender, in addition to other criteria. That way, you’ll only see UnitedHealthcare Dentists in Cornelius who match your preferences.


How can I find a UnitedHealthcare Dentist in Cornelius who sees patients after hours?

On Zocdoc, you can search specifically for UnitedHealthcare Dentists in Cornelius with availability after 5 p.m.


How can I find a top-rated UnitedHealthcare Dentist in Cornelius?

You can use Zocdoc to find UnitedHealthcare Dentists in Cornelius who are highly rated by other patients. These ratings are based on verified reviews submitted by real patients. Every time a patient completes an appointment booked on Zocdoc, they’re invited to review their experience. Each review must comply with Zocdoc’s guidelines.


How can I find a video visit with a Dentist online in Cornelius?

Dentists in Cornelius on Zocdoc who see patients through online video visits will have a purple video icon on their profiles. You can also filter your search results to show only Dentists who offer video visits.


Are video visits with a Dentist online covered by UnitedHealthcare?

Most insurers provide coverage for video visits at the same cost as in-person visits. You can search on Zocdoc specifically for Dentists in Cornelius who accept UnitedHealthcare for video visits by selecting your carrier and plan from the drop-down menu at the top of the page. We recommend you check with your insurance carrier directly to confirm your coverage and out of pocket costs for video visits.


How can I find a UnitedHealthcare Dentist in Cornelius who sees patients in the morning or evening?

Zocdoc lets you search specifically for a Dentist who has appointments available before 10:00 am, or after 5:00 pm. Just choose the special hours filter at the top of our search page.


How can I find a UnitedHealthcare Dentist in Cornelius who sees patients during the weekend?

Zocdoc let's you see real-time availability for UnitedHealthcare Dentists in Cornelius. Many UnitedHealthcare Dentists offer appointments on Saturdays and Sundays.


Zocdoc›Dentists›Charlotte, NC›Cornelius, NC›UnitedHealthcare