As the year winds down, many people forget about their dental insurance benefits. However, these benefits usually work on a “Use it or Lose it” basis, which means they reset at the start of the new year. If you don’t take advantage of your coverage before December 31, you risk losing what you’ve paid for.
In this blog, we’ll explain why it’s crucial to make that appointment and how you can make the most of your dental benefits before time runs out.
How Dental Insurance Works: Use it Or Lose it
Most dental insurance plans have an annual coverage limit. This means you have a set amount of benefits available each year to help cover dental costs like cleanings, exams, and procedures. Here’s what you need to know about “Use it Or Lose it”:
- Unused Benefits Don’t Roll Over: At the end of the year, any remaining benefits disappear. They don’t carry over to the next year. If you haven’t used all your benefits, you forfeit them.
- Deductibles Reset: Many plans come with a yearly deductible—the amount you pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in. If you haven’t reached your deductible, it resets to zero on January 1.
- Premiums Are Paid Regardless: Even if you don’t use your dental insurance, you’re still paying monthly premiums. Not taking advantage of covered services means you’re leaving money on the table.
Why It’s Smart to Maximize Your Dental Benefits?
There are many good reasons to make the most of your insurance benefits before they expire. Here’s why you should schedule a dental visit now:
- Prevention Pays Off: Insurance plans often cover preventive care like cleanings, exams, and X-rays at 100%. These visits help catch problems early before they become serious—and more costly.
- Get Necessary Treatments: If you’ve been putting off a filling, crown, or another procedure, now is the perfect time. Your insurance might cover a significant portion, so you’ll save money.
- Avoid the Holiday Rush: Many people remember to use their benefits in December, leading to a packed schedule at dental clinics. Book now to avoid the rush and secure your preferred appointment time.
- Price Increases: Dental fees can increase in the new year. By scheduling a visit now, you lock in this year’s rates, potentially saving on treatment costs.
How to Make the Most of Your Dental Benefits?
Ready to get started? Here are some practical tips for maximizing your dental insurance:
1. Schedule a Checkup and Cleaning
Routine cleanings and exams are usually fully covered under most dental insurance plans. These visits can help maintain your oral health and detect any potential problems. If it’s been more than six months since your last visit, it’s time to book an appointment.
2. Take Care of Outstanding Treatments
Do you have unfinished dental work or treatment recommendations from your last visit? Don’t wait. Taking care of any needed procedures before the end of the year will allow you to maximize your benefits.
- Fillings and Crowns: Covering cavities early can prevent more serious (and expensive) problems later.
- Root Canals: If your dentist has recommended a root canal, getting it done now can save you pain and financial strain in the future.
- Gum Treatments: Addressing gum disease early can prevent tooth loss and save your smile.
3. Schedule Major Procedures Wisely
For significant treatments like crowns, bridges, or implants, timing matters. If you have a series of procedures, you might split them between this year and the next. By spreading out treatments, you can maximize benefits across two calendar years, reducing your expenses.
4. Get Cosmetic Work While You’re At It
While many insurance plans don’t cover cosmetic dentistry, some elements might be partially covered if they also serve a functional purpose (like replacing damaged teeth). Consider getting these procedures done now, using your benefits to offset the costs.
What Happens If You Don’t Use Your Benefits?
If you let your benefits go to waste, you’ll lose out on the coverage you’ve been paying for all year. Here’s what could happen if you don’t act:
- Missed Opportunity for Affordable Care: Many preventive services and routine treatments are covered by insurance. Skipping these can lead to higher costs down the road.
- Higher Out-of-Pocket Expenses Later: Delaying necessary dental work can turn minor issues into bigger problems, leading to more costly procedures.
- Reset Deductibles and Maximums: Any amount you’ve spent towards your deductible resets in January. Your coverage limit also renews, so why not use what you’re entitled to before it refreshes?
Act Now and Use Your Benefits Before It’s Too Late!
Don’t wait until the last minute. Take action now to make the most of your dental insurance benefits. Scheduling an appointment could save you money, prevent future dental issues, and ensure you don’t lose the coverage you’ve paid for all year.
Encino Dental Esthetics is here to help you maximize your benefits before they expire. Our team is ready to assist with preventive care, ongoing treatments, and any questions you might have about your coverage.
Contact us today to book your appointment and make the most of your dental insurance before time runs out!
