Most dental insurance plans will reset at the end of the year. Have you done everything you can to maximize your benefits before then? Or are you about to lose hundreds of dollars that could have gone towards a healthier smile? If you want to get the most out of your insurance plan and keep your mouth healthy, read on to learn about the importance of seeing the dentist and using your benefits before January 1st.
What is Your Yearly Maximum?
The yearly maximum is the cap your policy sets on how much it will pay out for dental care during the year. Any unused portion of the maximum is returned to the company once your plan resets. That means the clock is ticking for you to take advantage of the money while you still have it. Your goal should be to reach or exceed your yearly maximum; that way, you’ll know that you’ve done everything you can to promote your own oral health.
Is the Deductible Paid?
Your insurance company requires you to pay your dentist a certain amount of money out of pocket before your coverage kicks in. The good news is that the deductible only needs to be met once during the year; unfortunately, it will restart with the rest of your plan in January. If you have already paid the fee for the year, you should get the treatment you need now instead of later.
Can You Overlap?
One way to save money on a costly procedure with multiple steps is to start them before January 1st and finish them afterwards. That way you maximize this year’s benefits while also taking advantage of next year’s benefits, thus significantly lowering your out-of-pocket costs.
Have You Kept Up Your Premiums?
If you pay your premiums, it makes sense to cash in on your insurance benefits. While you might not need any treatment to restore your oral health, you should at least see the dentist twice a year for checkups and cleanings. Most insurance companies cover these visits 100% because they can prevent gum disease, tooth decay and other dental issues from becoming larger problems that are more expensive to treat.
Do You Need Treatment?
If your dentist has already told you that you need dental work, you shouldn’t put it off. Oral health problems rarely get better on their own; in fact, they’ll usually become more severe as time passes. Utilizing your benefits and making an appointment now could be the decision that saves your teeth.
Ready to make a plan for maximizing your benefits? Make an appointment with your dentist in Williamstown today to find out how you can take care of your teeth – and how your insurance can help you do it.
About the Author
Dr. Wael M. Kassem completed his dental studies in 2007, and since then he has continued challenging himself and broadening his knowledge so that he can provide patients with exceptional service using state-of-the-art materials. His practice, iSmile Dental Arts, is in-network with many major dental plans (including Cigna PPO, Delta Dental, and Metlife) and will work with you to file claims to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. To schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (856) 818-9998.
