Dental insurance can have a lot of benefits. Unfortunately, many people don’t know about all of the benefits their plan offers, and often miss out at the end of the year. That’s why it’s so important to fit in all of your end of the year dental care before your insurance benefits expire. Let’s talk about the most important things to get done.
Did You Get All Of Your Cleanings?
Dental plans typically offer coverage for two professional dental cleanings every year. Oftentimes, it’s difficult to remember to schedule them on time every 6 months, so many people lose out on cleanings that are completely covered by their insurance. Cleanings can help to keep your dental health in top shape, so when considering what end of the year dental care you may need, making sure you’ve fit in all of the dental cleanings your plan covers each year is a great place to start.
When Was Your Last Exam?
Many dental plans also cover two exams per year, and it’s crucial to take advantage of these. Emergency care is important, but preventative care is equally, if not more, important because it can save you from countless issues down the road by allowing your dentist to catch things like cavities and gum disease early while they are still easily treatable.
Make sure to also check with your insurance about how often your plan covers x-rays. X-rays are an important part of dental exams because they allow your dentist to know what’s going on beneath the surface of your enamel and gum line, an area that is invisible to the eye clinically..
Have You Been Delaying Treatment?
If you’ve been putting off getting a cavity filled or another treatment done, it’s a good idea to get it done before the year wraps up. It’s important to fit in all of your end of the year dental care as soon as possible before the calendar turns so you can make the most of your insurance benefits before they expire.
Many plans provide what’s called a maximum payout limit that is essentially like a bank account full of money that’s available to you just for dental work. If it’s not used up at the end of the year, it goes back to the insurance company. Pushing treatment back might seem like a way to save money, but it can actually waste money that could be yours.
Have You Learned About Your Plan?
If you’re new to understanding how insurance plans work, you’re not alone. Don’t be afraid to ask questions until you feel like you truly understand your plan. Your dental plan exists to benefit you. Talk to your insurance company and your dentist about any questions you have about end of the year dental care and how you can make the most of your plan and its benefits before they expire.
Call our Helotes Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.
Dental insurance can have a lot of benefits. Unfortunately, many people don’t know about all of the benefits their plan offers, and often miss out at the end of the year. That’s why it’s so important to fit in all of your end of the year dental care before your insurance benefits expire. Let’s talk about the most important things to get done.
