Don’t Wait for Your Dental Insurance to Expire

October 11, 2022

More Americans than ever have private dental insurance; however, less than 3% meet or exceed their annual limits. Let’s face it, dental policies can be confusing. It’s not uncommon for people to believe they still can’t afford to visit a dentist, despite their coverage. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Paying your monthly premiums is an investment in reduced rates for the services your teeth and gums need to stay healthy. It’s not too late to use your coverage, but time is running out. Here’s how to maximize dental insurance benefits before they reset at the end of the year.

1. Choose the Right Dentist

Your dental insurance will recommend choosing a dentist in your network to enjoy more coverage at the time of service. They have pre-negotiated rates with preferred dental offices for common treatments to lower the amount you’ll pay. However, you can visit any dentist that accepts your coverage, even if they are out-of-network. You’ll have to pay the difference between your insurance’s allowable coverage and the office’s fee.

2. Schedule a Cleaning and Checkup

The American Dental Association recommends a cleaning and checkup, even if you don’t have any current oral health concerns. Your dental insurance makes it easy and affordable to get the routine care you need. Your policy focuses on prevention to stop various oral health issues from occurring, like tooth decay and gum disease. As a result, you will preserve your smile and avoid costly dental procedures. Research has found that every $1 spent on prevention can save $50 on restorative and emergency services. You can see your dentist every 6 months after a co-payment to safeguard your smile and save money down the road.

3. Don’t Dental Dental Work

No one has the money for unplanned dental expenses, but you don’t have to delay the treatments you need, thanks to your insurance benefits. You can use your coverage to lower the cost of several restorative procedures after reaching your deductible. Your benefits can pay up to 80% of the cost until meeting your yearly limit, like fillings, root canals, and extractions.

4. Use It Before You Lose It

Your dental benefits reset at the end of the calendar year. Anything you don’t use won’t carry over into 2023. You won’t be reimbursed for your premiums, deductible, or annual allowance. You could throw hundreds to thousands of dollars down the drain that could be spent on your oral health. Don’t lose what you’ve paid for all year. Schedule an appointment with your dentist before the year ends.

Your dental team will work on your behalf with your insurance company to utilize your benefits to their full potential. If you’re ready to invest in better oral health, contact your dentist today for an appointment.

About Dr. Amy Crary

Dr. Crary earned her dental degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry and has completed advanced educational training in many specialties, including aesthetics, craniofacial pain, orthodontics, and more. She works with many leading insurance companies to keep her services affordable. Contact our office today to schedule your semi-annual cleaning and checkup.