Use it or lose it! Dental Insurance Benefits don’t roll over into the next year. How do you make the most of your dental insurance?
Understand Your Insurance Plan
The most important step in making the best use of your insurance benefits is to become acquainted with your insurance plan. Dental insurance plans have specific yearly maximums, limitations and exclusions that can impact your out-of pocket costs when seeking dental treatment. To get a comprehensive understanding of your benefits, speak directly with your insurance carrier or your dental office to understand the breakdown of your benefits.
Prioritize Preventative Care
Making the most of your dental insurance starts with prioritizing preventative care. Common dental procedures like exams, X-rays and dental cleanings are not only essential to maintaining your oral health, these treatments are covered entirely by most dental insurance plans. Make the most of your dental insurance and make sure to schedule your routine cleanings and exams each year.
Strategic Treatment Plans
Do you have pending dental treatment? More costly dental treatments like orthodontic (braces & Invisalign) or restorative treatments (implants, bridges or crowns) are often only partially covered by dental insurance plans. Don’t put off important treatments due to out-of-pocket costs. Ask your dental care provider about strategically scheduling treatment throughout the year to maximize your benefits and minimize your out-of-pocket costs.
Don’t Put Off Basic Treatments
Most dental plans offer coverage towards dental fillings as these fall under basic restorative procedures. Common coverage types for most fillings range from 50% to 80% — depending on the insurance plan. While out-of-pocket costs associated with basic restorative treatments may make you want to postpone treatment, putting off basic restorative treatments like dental fillings can lead to more costly dental procedures down the road. If you have any unused benefits, be sure to schedule any pending treatment before the year is up. This not only saves your wallet, but ensures you’re being proactive about your oral health.
Be sure to make the most of your dental benefits! Learn more about how your insurance pays into dental treatment and how to utilize your benefits before the year is up.