As the year draws to a close, it’s essential to take a moment and review your dental insurance benefits. Many people don’t realize that their dental insurance plans are designed with a “use it or lose it” policy, meaning any benefits you haven’t utilized by the end of the year may not roll over to the next. At Adams Dental Associates in Sacramento, we encourage our patients to make the most of their available dental insurance benefits before they expire. Here’s what you need to know to ensure you’re not leaving valuable dental insurance benefits on the table.
Understanding Your Dental Insurance Benefits
Dental insurance typically covers a range of services from preventive care, like cleanings and exams, to more significant procedures such as fillings, crowns, and sometimes even orthodontics. However, the specifics of what is covered can vary widely from one plan to another. Most dental insurance plans also have an annual maximum, which is the most your insurance will pay for dental care within one full year.
Regular Check-Ups and Cleanings
Most dental insurance plans cover two annual check-ups and cleanings at 100%, meaning these services come at no extra cost to you as long as you stay within the network when choosing a dentist. These visits are not only crucial for maintaining oral health but also for preventing more severe and costly issues down the line. If you haven’t had your two cleanings this year, now is the time to schedule them before the benefit resets.
Annual Maximums
Dental insurance plans generally have an annual maximum amount they will pay for dental care, which often resets at the beginning of each year. If you have unused benefits, these will not carry over to the next year — you will lose them. If you have been putting off a dental procedure, consider using these benefits before the year ends.
Deductibles
The deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance begins to cover any services. Like annual maximums, most deductibles reset when the new year begins. If you’ve already met your deductible for the year, it would be financially wise to have any other necessary treatments or procedures done now, to reduce your out-of-pocket spending.
Why Use Your Dental Insurance Now?
- Save Money: Utilizing your benefits before the year ends can save you a significant amount of money, especially if your deductible is already met, and your annual maximum hasn’t been reached. Postponing treatments can mean paying a new deductible and more out-of-pocket expenses once your benefits reset.
- Prevent Dental Issues: Regular dental visits funded by your insurance are critical to maintaining your oral health and identifying problems before they become more severe. Routine check-ups can prevent diseases and detect early signs of decay, which can save you from complicated, expensive procedures in the future.
- Maximize Benefits: Insurance companies make money when you don’t use your benefits. By ensuring you use the full scope of what your plan offers, you are getting the best return on the premiums you pay. Don’t give your dental insurance company free money — take full advantage of your benefits while you can.
- Improve Overall Health: Good oral health is linked to overall health. Regular dental care can reduce the risk of certain diseases, like heart disease and diabetes, which have been linked to gum disease. Using your dental insurance for regular visits supports not just your oral health, but your overall health too.
How Adams Dental Associates Can Help
At Adams Dental Associates, we understand that insurance details can be confusing and overwhelming. Our knowledgeable staff is here to help you understand and maximize your dental insurance benefits. We can provide a breakdown of what’s covered, help plan for urgent or elective procedures, and schedule appointments that ensure you get the most out of your insurance.
Don’t wait until it’s too late to use your benefits. Contact us today at our Sacramento practice to schedule an appointment and discuss how you can use your dental insurance to keep your smile healthy and beautiful. Remember, when it comes to dental insurance, make sure you use it rather than lose it!
