Dental insurance remains one of the most effective ways to save on your basic and restorative oral healthcare needs. But knowing how to take advantage of your available benefits may require the help of a trusted team. If you want to avoid missing out on essential savings, here are 3 ways you can maximize your benefits when using your dental insurance.
Tip #1: Schedule Your Preventive Dental Visits
Preventive dental care includes regular checkups and cleanings, services that are essential for maintaining good oral health. Since you are encouraged to see your dentist twice a year for these visits, you may notice that your plan covers them because they are considered “basic dental care.”
Most dental insurance companies reward those who seek preventive services to improve their oral health and minimize the potential need for future restorative care. Although every plan is different, most offer 100% coverage for regular dental checkups and cleanings, so you may not have to pay anything out of pocket when you arrive for your appointment.
Tip #2: Use Your Benefits Before They Expire
Most dental insurance companies build their plans so that the benefits are good for a single calendar year – January 1 to December 31. This means that you must use them during this timeframe. Otherwise, all available funds are returned to the insurance company at midnight at the end of the year.
Since benefits do not roll over from year to year, you can lose thousands of dollars in available funds typically provided by your insurance company. This means that if your dentist recommends a root canal or tooth extraction, don’t wait until the following year to undergo treatment. Get it done now to save more.
Tip #3: Take Advantage of Your Annual Maximum
Your annual maximum is the allotted amount your dental insurance company agrees to pay in a single calendar year. It is reset on January 1, so you can use these funds any time before December 31.
Although you are encouraged to stay on top of your oral health with preventive care, reducing your chances of more serious restorative treatment later on, it’s helpful to consider how you can use this money to your advantage.
Whether it’s a procedure you need or non-emergency visits that can help improve your smile, get the most out of your maximum before it expires.
If you’re unsure how to use your dental insurance benefits to your advantage, don’t hesitate to talk to a member of your dental team.
About the Author
Dr. Broneil Ishaya is a dentist who has been practicing since 2020. Completing his dental degree at UC San Francisco, he received a Fellowship from Misch Resnik Dental Implantology and is certified in Invisalign. This advanced training and expertise allow him to provide the best possible care to his patients, all while ensuring the services they receive are affordable. As an insurance-friendly dental practice, Turlock Dental Studio can help you save during each appointment. Just visit our website or call (209) 216–3530 to schedule an appointment and learn how we can maximize your available benefits today.