Yearly Dental Insurance Benefits: Use It or Lose It

Many people are not aware that using your dental benefits each year can actually save you quite a bit of money, especially if you have a reasonable deductible amount. The good news is if your plan follows a calendar year, you have the potential to save quite a bit of cash.
There are five important reasons why you should make an appointment now, before the end of the year, if your plan runs on a calendar year:

Yearly Maximum

This is the most money your dental insurance will pay for in one year. While the amount varies per plan, the average amount is around $1,000 per year for each person covered. These benefits will not roll over, so it is important you use them before the new calendar year begins.

Deductible

Your deductible is the amount of money you must pay first before your yearly insurance amount kicks in. This fee also varies from plan to plan and could be higher if you choose to see a dentist who is not in your plan’s network.  On average, however, it usually runs about $50 per year. If you’ve already made progress toward, or met your deductible, you’ll want to get dental work done before your plan rolls over and it resets.

Premiums

Most likely, you are paying your dental insurance premiums on a monthly basis, so why not use those benefits. Even if you are not experiencing any dental problems, it is important to have routine cleanings and x-rays done to make sure everything is in order. This will both prevent and detect any issues, such as gum disease, cavities, or even mouth cancer.

Fee Increases

Due to the cost of materials and equipment, your dentist may decide to raise his or her rates at the beginning of the next calendar year. This another good reason for you to use your benefits before the end of the year to avoid the increase along with the possibility of higher copays.

Worsening Dental Problems

Putting off routine cleanings or dental treatment usually leads to serious problems that could have simply been avoided by seeing your dentist sooner.  The start of a simple cavity now can easily lead to a root canal or loss of the tooth later.

Even if your insurance plan doesn’t reset based on the calendar year, it’s important to find out when your plan does. By not maximizing your plan, you’re leaving free money on the table. Do your wallet and your smile a favor, and call to schedule an appointment with your dentist today.