Nowadays, everyone is pinching pennies. If you’re looking for ways to cut your expenses, don’t put your oral health on the chopping block. Although more Americans than ever have private dental coverage, only 2.8% of policyholders meet or exceed their annual limits. Many people believe they can’t afford the out-of-pocket fees, so they skip routine appointments. Despite the intention to cut expenses, avoiding the dentist increases long-term oral health costs. Instead, you can invest in your financial future and a healthy smile for minimal expense. Here are 3 ways you can save money by maximizing your dental insurance in Gainesville.
1. Preventive Dentistry Lowers Dental Expenses
The American Dental Association recommends a cleaning and checkup at least twice per year to keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you don’t have any current concerns about your smile, visiting your dentist may seem like a waste of money. However, research shows every $1 spent on preventive dentistry can save up to $50 on restorative and emergency expenses.
Semi-annual trips to your dentist can stop many oral health problems, like tooth decay and gum disease. As a result, you’ll avoid an expensive treatment later. Your dental coverage makes it easy and affordable to visit your dentist. After a copayment, your plan will cover 100% of preventive services. You can preserve your natural smile for minimal expense, so you won’t have to worry about an unplanned dental bill.
2. Stop Dental Problems from Worsening
Visiting your dentist in Gainesville every 6 months allows your dental team to monitor your oral health. They can detect minor concerns early to prevent them from worsening. If your dentist finds an issue, you don’t have to let your financial situation delay your procedure.
You have access to reduced dental expenses by paying your monthly premium for your policy. After meeting your deductible, your dental insurance can pay up to 80% of the bill until hitting your yearly limit. Even if money is tight, you can treat it early using a less costly procedure. It’s more affordable to treat a cavity with a filling than it is to save a severely decayed tooth with a root canal.
3. Don’t Throw Money Away
Your dental benefits reset at the end of the year. If you don’t use your coverage, you won’t be reimbursed for your premiums or any money toward your deductible. You’ll lose any remaining benefits because they don’t carry over to the following year.
You pay for your dental insurance every month, so why not use it? There’s still time to maximize your coverage. Visit your dentist to start the new year with more flexibility in your finances.
About Dr. Shue Her
Dr. Her earned his dental degree from the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry before continuing higher education in advanced procedures. He offers state-of-the-art services for affordable rates because he works with many dental insurance companies. Dr. Her will help you reach your oral health goals without draining your wallet. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment.