As the year draws to a close, it’s crucial to take a moment to consider your dental health benefits. Many dental insurance plans operate on a “use it or lose it” basis, meaning any unused benefits will expire at the end of the year. At Desert Valley Dental, we encourage our patients to make the most of their dental insurance by scheduling any necessary appointments before the year’s end. Here’s why and how you should maximize your dental benefits.
Understanding Your Dental Insurance Benefits
Know Your Coverage
Most dental plans have a maximum coverage limit, which resets at the beginning of each calendar year. If you have unused benefits, these will not roll over to the next year; they simply disappear. It’s important to understand the specifics of your coverage, including the total yearly maximum, deductible amounts, and any covered procedures.
Preventive Care Coverage
Preventive care, such as cleanings, exams, and x-rays, is typically covered by dental insurance plans, often without a deductible or co-pay. These services are essential not only for maintaining dental health but also for avoiding more costly and extensive procedures in the future.
Procedures Worth Considering Before Year-End
Routine Checkups & Cleanings
If you haven’t yet used your allotted preventive care benefits, book a cleaning and checkup. These visits can help prevent dental issues and catch others before they become more serious.
Unfinished Dental Work
If you’ve started a dental treatment plan earlier in the year that includes multiple phases, review what can be completed before the end of the year to make full use of your benefits.
Planned Treatments
If you’ve been postponing dental work such as fillings, crowns, or even orthodontic evaluations, consider scheduling these treatments before the year is out. Using your remaining benefits can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
How To Maximize Your Dental Benefits
Schedule An Appointment Early
December is one of the busiest months for dental practices. Scheduling early will help ensure you get an appointment that suits your timetable and uses your benefits before they expire.
Prioritize Your Dental Needs
Discuss with your dentist which treatments are most urgent based on your dental health needs. Prioritizing care ensures you address the most critical issues before your benefits reset.
Review Your Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
If you have an FSA, check the balance and understand the terms. Some FSAs offer a grace period into the next year, but others do not. Use these funds for eligible dental expenses to avoid losing them.
Maximize Your Insurance Benefits With Desert Valley Dental
Your dental health is an important part of your overall health. Take full advantage of your dental benefits before they reset. At Desert Valley Dental, serving Reno, Sparks, Damonte, Sun Valley, & Stead, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal dental health and ensure you make the most out of your insurance benefits. Contact us today to schedule your end-of-year appointment and enter the new year with a healthy, happy smile.
