Dental insurance companies are eagerly awaiting the moment the clock strikes midnight on December 31, 2020. Why? Because billions of dollars in unused dental benefits will be returned into their hands. Each year, millions of people wait too long to use their coverage to get the treatment they need, but it doesn’t have to be this way. A local dentist explains why you should take advantage of your insurance now instead of waiting until 2021.
When It Comes to Benefits, They Don’t Roll Over
Ever heard the term “use it or lose it?” It can most certainly be applied to the discussion surrounding dental benefits, and here’s why:
Like most insurance companies (i.e. medical, dental, etc.), you agree to pay a monthly premium for access to a list of benefits available for you to use in a single calendar year. On January 1, whatever amount you didn’t utilize goes back to the insurance company.
Your insurer already receives your monthly payment, so if you want to avoid giving them even more at the end of the year, make sure to do the following before December 31.
Take Advantage of Preventive Services
Dental insurance is designed with preventive care in mind. By keeping your six-month appointments and maintaining good oral health, you will:
- Pay little-to-nothing out of pocket. Most insurance companies agree to pay anywhere from 80-100% of preventive services. This can include dental checkups and cleanings, digital X-Rays, and even fluoride treatment and dental sealants.
- Save yourself lots of money and continue to receive the dental care you need.
- Avoid potential problems in the long run by allowing your dentist to catch any issues early on in the process.
Pay Attention to Your Deductible
No matter how well you take care of your smile, things can happen along the way. Whether it is decay, gum disease, or a dental emergency, there are times when restorative dentistry is necessary to improve your oral health. This is why paying attention to your deductible is important.
Most dental insurance companies agree to pay between 50-80% for minor or major restorative procedures, so if you need a dental crown or bridge, root canal therapy, or tooth extraction, for instance, it is beneficial to have this taken care of earlier in the year before your plan expires.
Don’t let your insurance benefits fall to the wayside each year. Instead, take the time to become more familiar with your policy and ask a member of your dental team for assistance if you need help maximizing your plan. And don’t forget to see a dentist who is in-network with your major PPO plan, as this will help you save more throughout the calendar year.
About the Author
Dr. Joanne Bancroft has been practicing dentistry since 2003. Earning her dental degree from the State University of Buffalo School of Dental Medicine in 2002, she attended a General Practice Residency at the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. By continuing to take continuing education courses, she remains up to date on all the latest advancements and changes in dentistry. At J.B. Dental, she and her team take preventive care seriously and want all patients to get the most out of their dental insurance benefits by keeping their regular six-month appointments. If you want to maximize your coverage before the end of the year, contact us at (720) 458-6561.