A new year is right around the corner. As you head into the holiday season, you have many things on your to-do list, but shopping for the perfect gifts shouldn’t be at the top. Instead, visiting your dentist is a priority because your dental insurance is about to expire. Don’t worry, here are 4 ways to maximize your coverage before it’s too late.
1. Choose the Best Dentist
Your dental insurance gives you access to a nationwide network of dental professionals. However, your dental insurance recommends choosing an in-network dentist to enjoy more coverage at the time of services. They have set rates with specific dental practices to lower the amount you will pay out-of-pocket.
You can still visit an out-of-network dentist, but you’ll have to pay the difference between the dentist’s fees and your insurance’s allowable amount.
2. Schedule a Semi-Annual Cleaning and Checkup
Besides brushing and flossing, the American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. Preventive dentistry stops issues from occurring to preserve your dental health and lessens the need for costly treatments later.
According to researchers, every $1 spent on prevention can save up to $50 on restorative services. Your dental insurance covers 100% of preventive dentistry. You can get a cleaning and checkup twice a year after a co-payment.
3. Don’t Delay Necessary Dental Work
If you require dental work, there isn’t a better time than now to schedule an appointment. After meeting your deductible, your dental insurance can pay up to 80% of the expenses for common restorative procedures, like fillings, tooth extractions, and dental crowns.
You can use your annual allowance to treat issues while they are still small to prevent them from turning into big problems. You can use your yearly allowance to cover some of the expenses, so nothing stands in the way of keeping your mouth healthy.
4. Don’t Wait Until Your Benefits Expire
Your dental insurance does not last forever. Your benefits will reset at the end of the year, and you’ll lose anything you haven’t used. Nothing will carry over and you won’t be reimbursed for your premiums or deductibles.
With less than 3% of Americans meeting or exceeding their annual allowance, you could lose hundreds to thousands of dollars that could have been spent on a healthy, beautiful smile.
Your dentist will help you maximize your coverage before it’s too late. You can start the new year with healthy teeth and gums.
About Dr. Joseph Salvaggio
Dr. Salvaggio achieved his dental degree from the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry. He is a lifelong learner and regularly continues his training in many specialties, like implant dentistry and cosmetics. He accepts dental insurance to keep a healthy smile affordable for everyone. Request an appointment through his website or call (289) 569-0721.