Did you know that many dental insurance plans expire at the end of the year, leaving you with unused benefits you can’t carry over? If you’re not careful, you could lose valuable coverage without realizing it.
This blog will show you how to take full advantage of your dental benefits before they expire. Read on to discover tips on making the most of your dental plan and saving money!
Understanding Your Dental Benefits
Dental insurance plans, like PPOs and HMOs, typically cover services such as exams, cleanings, fillings, and x-rays. PPO plans offer more flexibility in choosing dentists, while HMOs tend to be more affordable but limit choice.
Many plans have annual maximums, which limit how much the insurance will pay each year, with any unused amount expiring at year-end. Most plans also impose frequency limits on services like cleanings and x-rays, which can be done only a certain number of times per year.
Additionally, deductibles and co-pays affect your out-of-pocket expenses, so knowing these details will help you plan ahead.
Why You Should Act Before Year-End?
Many dental insurance plans reset at the end of the year, and unused benefits don’t carry over. If you don’t use your benefits, you’ll lose them. Scheduling dental treatments before December 31st ensures that you make the most of your plan and avoid paying out-of-pocket for procedures that could be covered.
Planning treatments, such as fillings or crowns, before the year ends can save you money and ensure you won’t be stuck paying more early next year.
How to Maximize Your Dental Benefits?
Start by scheduling a dental checkup early to assess your needs. A checkup helps determine if you need cleanings, exams, or any other treatments before the year ends. Review your plan to see if you have unused benefits for exams, cleanings, or x-rays.
Many plans cover preventative care at 100%, so be sure to take advantage of this. If you need treatments like fillings, crowns, or even orthodontic work, discuss them with your dentist to get them covered under your current plan. Your dentist can help you prioritize treatments and ensure they are done before your benefits reset.
Last-Minute Tips to Maximize Your Benefits
Book your dental appointments as early as possible. Towards the end of the year, appointment slots fill up quickly. Don’t wait! Contact your insurance provider to review your coverage limits and find out exactly what is covered.
You may also want to verify if any treatments need to be completed before December 31st. Be sure you’re aware of your insurance deadlines, such as claim submission dates, so you don’t miss out on using your benefits.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If you miss using your benefits by year-end, you’ll lose them, and they won’t roll over into the next year. You’ll start fresh in the new year with a new deductible and possibly higher co-pays.
This could mean more out-of-pocket costs for the treatments you need. Don’t risk losing valuable coverage—act before the deadline!
Act Now and Protect Your Smile!
Don’t let your dental benefits go to waste! At Avery Dental Wellness, we’re here to help you make the most of your insurance. Book an appointment now and get the dental care you deserve before year-end. Time is running out—use it or lose it!