Every year, millions of Americans leave behind billions of dollars in dental insurance benefits without even realizing it. This is because most dental insurance plans operate on a “use it or lose it” system, meaning that if you don’t use all your benefits by the end of the calendar year, they’ll be gone forever. Do you want to save money and keep your mouth healthy? Then keep reading as we discover why it’s important to use your benefits by seeing your cosmetic dentist before January 1st, 2020.
Know Your Annual Maximum
Your annual maximum is a crucial number to know in order to save money. This is the highest dollar amount that your insurance company will pay for your dental care in one calendar year. The average yearly maximum is between $1,000 and $1,250. The key is to try and meet or even exceed that number to get the highest amount of benefits.
Meet Your Deductible
Your deductible is the amount you have to pay out-of-pocket before your insurance company steps in and helps out with costs. Once you pay your deductible, it’s good for the rest of the year. Just like your annual maximum, your deductible will also reset come January 1st, so if you’ve already paid it, you should go ahead and see your dentist for the treatment you need.
Get What You’re Paying For
If you’re paying your monthly dental insurance premiums, you should be visiting your dentist twice a year, but most people with insurance only see them once, if at all. In order to get the most bang for your buck, you should be seeing your dentist at least once every six months for a regular checkup and cleaning.
Even if you don’t need any specific dental work done, you should still come in twice a year. These appointments allow your dentist to check for early signs of issues like gum disease, cavities, and even oral cancer. Preventive visits like these are typically covered 100% by your insurance, which makes them a great way to maximize your benefits.
Get Any Needed Dental Work Done
Whether it’s due to cost, time, or good old-fashioned dental anxiety, it’s easy to put off needed dental work like fillings or crowns. However, procrastinating on this treatment will only leave you in worse shape by putting you at greater risk for more expensive and time-consuming treatments down the road. That’s why it’s always best to see your cosmetic dentist to utilize your benefits and keep your mouth as healthy as possible.
Now that you know how to maximize your dental insurance, do you have an appointment scheduled with your cosmetic dentist before the end of the year? If not, now is the perfect time to contact them about booking one. Your mouth and your wallet will thank you!
About the Author
Dr. Cher Rich graduated in 2002 with her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Texas at Houston Dental School. She then opened her Houston dental office five years later, where she enjoys helping patients achieve and maintain their healthiest smiles. Her practice is in-network with most major PPO insurance plans. To schedule your end-of-year appointment, click here to contact her Dr. Rich’s office.