Most dental insurance plans run on a traditional calendar year, with a few running on a fiscal year. Regardless of how your plan runs, dental benefits reset every year. If your plan runs on a traditional calendar year, then this is probably the best time to take advantage of everything that your dental insurance cover has to offer. Here are a few tips to help you maximize your dental benefits before the end of the year.
Know About Maximums and Deductibles
A maximum is the highest amount of money your dental insurance provider will pay for your dental care within a year while deductible is the highest amount of money you’re required to pay to your dentist before your insurance provider pays for any services. The maximum renews every year, so don’t expect your unused benefits to roll-over. Your deductible also begins afresh when the plan rolls over. It goes without saying that you should use your benefits while they are still active.
Remember that Fees Increase
Most financial changes are implemented at the beginning of the year. The dentist near you may increase rates, most probably at the beginning of the year to cater for the high cost of living as well as for new equipment and materials. This will cause a significant increase in your copay. That said, it’s better to see your dentist while the rates remain the same, especially if you have any outstanding treatments.
Avoid Worsening Dental Problems
By postponing dental treatments, you risk having more extensive and costly treatments later on. For instance, a simple cavity now can easily turn into a root canal down the road. Use these benefits to take care of such small issues.
Get Preventive Care
You don’t have to require treatments to visit the dentist. You can use your remaining dental benefits for preventive treatments like cleanings, X-rays, and fluoride treatments. This allows you to maintain a healthy oral hygiene. Plus, routine checkups can help detect dental problems early on before they become worse. Keep in mind that dental problems such as gum disease and root canal Plano problems have been linked to numerous health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even oral cancer.
Don’t let this year’s benefits go to waste. Schedule an appointment with your dentist and get the maximum benefits your plan has to offer while keeping your oral health in check.