2023 is right around the corner, which means time is running out to use your dental insurance. You pay your premiums every month for your insurance, so why not use it to invest in your smile? Your life may be busier than usual as you shop for the perfect gifts and plan for tasty meals, but don’t wait to see your dentist. Your insurance benefits restart at the end of the year. Don’t throw money down the drain. Here are 4 ways to maximize dental insurance benefits before they expire.
1. Choose the Right Dentist
Your dental insurance recommends choosing a dentist in your network to enjoy more coverage at the time of services. Your insurance provider has pre-negotiated rates with preferred dental practices for common services to lower your out-of-pocket expenses. However, you can visit any
dentist in Gainesville that accepts your coverage, even if they are out-of-network. You can still use your insurance, but you’ll pay the difference between the dentist’s fees and your policy’s allowable coverage.
2. Schedule a Cleaning and Checkup
The American Dental Association recommends a cleaning and checkup every 6 months to keep common oral health issues at bay, like tooth decay and gum disease. As a result, you’re less likely to require costly treatments later. Research has found that every $1 spent on prevention reduces emergency and restorative costs by $50. You can visit your dentist twice a year using your dental insurance in Gainesville because preventive services are covered 100%.
3. Don’t Delay Dental Work
If your dentist finds anything concerning, you don’t have to delay dental work if money is tight. After meeting your deductible, your insurance can pay up to 80% of the expense of common restorative treatments. You can use your annual allowance to offset the cost to keep a healthy smile within your budget. Your dentist will work on your behalf with the insurance company to maximize your annual coverage to maintain optimal oral health.
4. Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Your dental insurance benefits will reset at the end of the year. Even if you never visit a dentist, you won’t be reimbursed for your premiums or deductible. Anything you don’t use won’t accumulate. With less than 3% of Americans meeting or exceeding their annual limits, you probably have several benefits you’re about to lose. Not to mention the money you’ve spent paying for your monthly premiums.
Although life is busy during the holiday season, take the time to schedule an appointment with your dentist. They’ll help you achieve your best smile for minimal expense.
About Dr. Shue Her
Dr. Her achieved his dental degree at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry and has completed advanced continuing education in periodontal disease, dental implants, sedation, and more. He works with many dental insurances to keep his services affordable. If you need an appointment before the end of the year, contact our office today to request an appointment.