Dental insurance is a valuable benefit that many people often overlook until it’s too late. With most dental insurance plans resetting at the end of the year, it’s crucial to make the most of your benefits before they expire.
Understanding how to maximize your dental coverage can save you money and ensure you maintain a healthy smile all year round.
In this blog, we’ll explore why it’s important to act now and how you can take full advantage of your dental insurance before the year ends.
Why You Should Use Your Dental Insurance Before the Year Ends?
Many dental insurance plans work on a calendar year basis. Once January 1st hits, any unused benefits from the previous year are gone. This is often referred to as the “use it or lose it” policy.
If you don’t use your dental benefits by the end of the year, you lose them. But why let that happen when it can lead to missed opportunities for preventive care or necessary treatments?
- Yearly maximums reset: Most dental plans have an annual maximum. This is the limit on what your insurance will pay for your dental treatments in a given year. If you haven’t hit your maximum, now’s the time to take advantage.
- Deductibles reset: Every year, your deductible resets, meaning you’ll have to pay it again in the new year before insurance covers treatments. Use your benefits now to avoid paying a new deductible.
- Rollover is rare: Only a few insurance plans allow unused benefits to roll over into the new year. For most people, if you don’t use them, you lose them.
Common Treatments to Consider Before Year-End
Depending on your dental insurance plan, you might already be covered for a wide range of dental services. Here are some treatments to consider before your benefits expire:
- Routine cleanings and checkups: Many insurance plans cover two cleanings per year. If you’ve only had one so far, schedule your second before the year is over.
- Fillings and cavity treatments: Dental issues like cavities only get worse over time. If your plan covers restorative treatments, get those fillings done before your benefits run out.
- Crowns and bridges: Complex treatments like crowns or bridges can be costly. Scheduling them before your benefits reset could save you money.
- Periodontal maintenance: If you have gum disease, your insurance may cover periodontal treatments to keep it under control.
Maximize Your Insurance Benefits Strategically
Timing your dental treatments smartly can help you get more value from your insurance. Here’s how to make the most of it:
- Plan major treatments across two years: If you need more extensive work, such as multiple crowns or dental implants, talk to your dentist about splitting the treatments between this year and the next. This way, you can maximize your annual coverage.
- Get preventive care: Preventive treatments like cleanings and exams are often fully covered by insurance. They not only help maintain your oral health but also help you avoid more expensive treatments down the road.
- Take advantage of any unused benefits: If you’ve been putting off dental work because of cost, now is the time to take advantage of your insurance. Don’t let your benefits go to waste—use them before you lose them!
Take Action Now!
Don’t let your hard-earned dental benefits slip away. The clock is ticking, and once the year is over, any unused benefits are lost for good. By scheduling your treatments now, you can maximize your insurance and save on out-of-pocket costs. Remember, it’s a “use it or lose it” situation, and there’s no reason to let your benefits go to waste.
Schedule your appointment today with Modern Dental Smiles and make the most of your dental insurance before the year ends!