Use It Or Lose It
Yearly maximums and deductibles start over at the New Year. If you haven't reached your yearly maximum but you've paid your full deductible, the difference between the two is like money thrown in the trash...especially if you need dental treatments.
5 Reasons To Use Your Dental Insurance Before End of the Year
Did you know that you could actually save hundreds of dollars by using your dental benefits before the end of the year? While some dental insurance plans run on a fiscal year, most run on a calendar year. If your dental insurance plan is on a calendar year, these 5 reasons will show you why you should make a dental appointment now.
1. Yearly Maximum
The yearly maximum is the most money that the dental insurance plan will pay for your dental work within one full year. This amount varies by insurance company, but the average is around $1,000 per year, per person. The yearly maximum usually renews every year (on January 1 if your plan is on a calendar year). If you have unused benefits, these will not rollover.
2. Deductible
The deductible is the amount of money that you must pay to your dentist out of pocket before your insurance company will pay for any services. This fee varies from one plan to another and could be higher if you choose an out-of-network dentist. However, the average deductible for a dental insurance plan is usually around $50 per year. Your deductible also starts again when your plan rolls over.
3. Premiums
If you are paying your dental insurance premiums every month, you should be using your benefits. Even if you don't need any dental treatment, you should always have your professional dental cleanings to help prevent and detect any early signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer and other dental problems.
4. Fee Increases
Another reason to use your benefits before the end of the year are possible fee increases. It is sometimes necessary for dentists raise their rates at the beginning of the year due to the increased cost of living, materials and equipment. A fee increase can also make your copay higher.
5. Dental Problems Can Worsen
By delaying dental treatment, you are risking more extensive and expensive treatment down the road. What may be a simple cavity now, could turn into a root canal later. Call us and schedule an appointment to use those benefits.
Services that are generally a covered benefit by Insurance Plans:
General exams and Professional Dental Cleanings
Fluoride Treatments
Child Preventive Sealants
Fillings
Crown or Bridge Treatments
Extractions
Gum Therapies
Dentures
Root Canal Therapies
Braces
If you're not sure how much you have already paid on your deductible, contact the member service department of your dental health plan. Maximize your year-end dental benefits before it's too late. You'll benefit from better dental health, an improved smile and the best use of your dental insurance.
Call us to schedule your dental appointment today or request an appointment online by clicking here!
