The year is winding down, and there’s one thing you shouldn’t forget—your dental insurance benefits. Many dental insurance plans follow a “Use It or Lose It” policy, which means unused benefits won’t roll over to the next year. If you’ve been putting off a dental check-up or other treatments, now is the time to act. Waiting can be costly, leading to bigger expenses down the road. So, don’t let those benefits slip away. Schedule an appointment now, save money, and keep your smile in great shape.
Here’s why you need to use your dental insurance before the clock strikes midnight.
Understanding ‘Use It or Lose It’ Policy in Dental Insurance
Most dental insurance plans have a yearly maximum—this is the total amount your insurance will pay for dental treatments within the calendar year. If you don’t use up this amount by the end of the year, you lose it. It’s that simple.
Key Points to Know:
- Unused Benefits Don’t Roll Over: If you haven’t utilized your benefits by December 31, they disappear.
- Annual Deductibles Reset: When the new year begins, so does your deductible, which means you’ll have to meet it again before your insurance starts covering costs.
- Premiums Are Already Paid: You’ve been paying premiums all year. Make sure you get what you’ve paid for.
Why Waiting Can Cost You More?
If you’ve been delaying that routine cleaning, filling, or other dental treatment, waiting until the next year might make it harder on your wallet. Here’s why:
Delaying Leads to Bigger Problems
- Minor dental problems can escalate into major issues if not addressed promptly. A small cavity now can turn into a root canal later.
- Gum disease may start with mild symptoms, but if ignored, it can lead to serious, expensive procedures.
Dental Costs May Rise
- Insurance coverage often changes. Waiting until the next year could mean changes to what’s covered, increased costs, or stricter guidelines.
- Dental offices get busier toward the year’s end. If you wait too long, you might miss out on available appointments.
Tips for Maximizing Your Dental Insurance
To get the most out of your dental insurance benefits, keep these tips in mind:
Plan Ahead
- Don’t wait until the last week of December. Book your appointments as early as possible to avoid the rush.
- If you need extensive work, consider breaking it into multiple appointments. Start in the current year and continue into the next so you can maximize benefits across both years.
Check Your Insurance Policy
- Understand what’s covered and what’s not. Some policies include extras like fluoride treatments, sealants, or orthodontic consultations.
- Keep track of your remaining benefits. Knowing what’s left can help you decide which treatments to prioritize.
Take Advantage of Preventative Care
- Most insurance plans fully cover cleanings, X-rays, and exams. Use these benefits to keep your teeth healthy and avoid major problems later.
- Preventative care today can reduce the need for expensive treatments tomorrow.
Don’t Let Your Dental Benefits Go to Waste
By taking action now, you can save money and protect your oral health. If you’ve been postponing dental work or haven’t had a check-up in a while, now is the time. Don’t wait until next year when costs might rise, benefits might change, and small problems could become bigger issues.
Schedule your appointment with Floss Dental today! Maximize your dental benefits, save money, and keep your smile healthy. Contact us now to secure a convenient time before the year ends.