The end of the year is right around the corner. Although your schedule is a little busier, keep a healthy smile at the top of your priority list. If you have any remaining dental benefits, they are about to expire. You won’t be reimbursed for anything that hasn’t been used, but you don’t have to throw money down the drain. There’s still time to use your coverage, even if money is tight. Here are 4 ways to maximize dental insurance benefits before they reset.
1. Schedule a Cleaning and Checkup
Dentistry focuses on prevention to stop common oral health issues from occurring. By preserving a patient’s smile, it lowers their long-term dental expenses. Your dental insurance covers 100% of preventive services after a copayment. You can get the cleanings and checkups you need for minimal out-of-pocket costs to save money down the road. Research shows every $1 spent on prevention can save up to $50 on restorative treatments. You can use your monthly investment to achieve optimal oral health to look and feel your best for the new year.
2. Treat Dental Issues Early
If your dentist finds a problem during a routine visit, don’t wait to have it treated because it will continue to worsen until it leads to a dental emergency or costly repair. You don’t have to delay the treatment until you have more financial flexibility. After reaching your deductible, your policy can cover up to 80% of the cost. You can use your yearly allowance to reduce the amount you’ll need to pay to rehabilitate your natural smile.
3. Choose the Right Dentist
Your dental insurance encourages you to choose a dentist that’s in their network. They have pre-negotiated rates for specific treatments to benefit from more coverage at the time of service. Contrary to common belief, you can still use your insurance at an out-of-network dentist. You’ll have more freedom to choose the exact dentist and services you need; however, you’ll have to pay the difference between the office’s fees and your insurance’s allowable coverage.
4. Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Unfortunately, your dental insurance doesn’t last forever. Your benefits will reset at the end of the year, and anything you haven’t used won’t carry over to accumulate. You won’t be reimbursed for your premiums or deductible. On average, less than 2.8% of Americans meet or exceed their annual limits, which means you likely have coverage you’re about to lose.
Take a break from the holiday festivities to visit your dentist. They’ll work on your behalf with your dental insurance to reach your oral health goals without the burden of a large bill. It’s never too late to invest in the healthy, beautiful smile you deserve.
About Dr. Bobby Shirley
Dr. Shirley earned his dental degree at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry. He is a member of various professional organizations, including the Georgia Dental Association and the American Dental Association. Dr. Shirley works with many dental insurances to keep his services affordable. If you have benefits that you’re about to lose, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
