With only a few months left before the end of the year, you may be thinking about what you can do to maximize your dental insurance benefits. You keep up with your oral health quite well throughout the year but at your most recent visit, you learned you could use a dental filling because of a small cavity that has formed. You might be thinking about waiting until after the new year to undergo treatment, but it will end up costing more if you do. So, if you want to learn how you can save when it comes to dental care, here are three ways to get the most out of your policy before your benefits expire.
Take Advantage of Preventive Services
Each year, you are granted two dental checkups and cleanings by your dental insurance company. Because it is recommended by the American Dental Association (ADA) that patients see the dentist twice a year, insurers design their plans in a way that promotes preventive care. This is why they offer the most coverage – to minimize the chances of a person needing restorative care. To maximize this benefit, you should make sure that you see your dentist every six months so that you can avoid more extensive treatment as well as receive dental care that is almost or completely paid for (80-100%).
Complete Complex Treatments While You Still Can
It might seem odd to move forward with dental treatment before the end of the year. But the truth is if you have already met your deductible, you will actually save by opting for care instead of waiting until later. Whether it is a filling, crown, or root canal, you’ll avoid having to pay your deductible again in 2023 as long as you commit to completing the procedure in the current year. Of course, much of this also depends on how much of your existing annual maximum remains.
Most companies will agree to pay between 50-80% of the cost for restorative care, so based on the remaining yearly maximum, you can expect to save a lot of money by repairing your smile in 2022.
See an In-Network Dentist
When looking at your dental insurance plan, you’ll find there are two columns – one for in-network and one for out-of-network. This means if you have a PPO plan, you can choose to see any dentist you want but to save big on expenses, you need to choose someone who is in-network with your insurance company. Fortunately, many dental professionals note who they are in-network with, which will allow you to take advantage of your benefits in a way that helps you to save each time you visit.
Knowing how to maximize your dental benefits often takes the help of a trusted dental team member. Don’t be afraid to ask about what you can do to get the most out of your plan so that your smile is ready for 2023.
About the Author
Dr. Tina Theroux is a trusted dentist who leads an exceptional team at Theroux Dental Associates. Dedicated to helping patients get the most out of their dental benefits, our team will go the extra mile to review your insurance policy as well as file any claims and paperwork on your behalf. We’ll also help to explain the cost of treatment so that you can prepare for any expenses that must come out of pocket. If you want to learn whether we are in-network with your insurance company, contact us via our website or by calling (508) 839-2262.