4 Tips to Maximize Your Dental Insurance

The holiday season is right around the corner. Life tends to get busier as you plan tasty meals and shop for the perfect gifts. However, don’t forget to maximize dental insurance benefits before they reset at the end of the year. As 2023 approaches, time is running out to use your coverage to keep your smile healthy. Every month you pay premiums for your policy, giving you access to affordable dental services. You could throw hundreds to thousands of dollars down the drain if you don’t use all your benefits before they expire. Don’t lose what you’ve paid for all year. Here are 4 ways to use your coverage before it’s too late.

1. Choose the Right Dentist

Your dental insurance recommends choosing an in-network dentist to enjoy more coverage at the time of services. They have pre-negotiated rates with preferred dental offices for specific services necessary for your oral health. You can still use your insurance at any dentist that accepts your policy, even if they are out-of-network. You will be responsible for the difference between your insurance’s allowable amount and the office’s fees.

2. Maintain Semi-Annual Appointments

Routine cleanings and checkups aren’t a luxury. They are a necessity for preserving your natural smile and reducing future oral health expenses. You can save $50 on restorative and emergency fees for every $1 spent on prevention. After a copayment, you can visit your dentist every 6 months to prevent common dental problems before they start. 

3. Don’t Delay Dental Work

Don’t wait to treat dental concerns because it’s easier and more affordable to treat a cavity than to perform a root canal. No matter the issue, you can have it addressed quickly without stressing about a large bill. After reaching your deductible, your insurance can pay 50% to 80% of the cost of common restorative procedures. You can use your annual allowance to lower your out-of-pocket expenses so you can rehabilitate your smile, even if money is tight. 

4. Use it Before You Lose It

Your dental insurance doesn’t last forever. At the end of the calendar year, your coverage expires. Anything you don’t use won’t accumulate. You won’t be reimbursed for your premiums or deductible. On average, less than 3% of Americans meet or exceed their yearly limits, so you probably have several benefits remaining that you’re at risk of losing. 

Schedule an Appointment Today

As you get ready for the holidays, keep your oral health a priority. If it has been longer than 6 months since your last cleaning and checkup, or you’ve been putting off a procedure, contact your dentist to invest in optimal oral health without breaking the bank. 

About Dr. Xinxing Liu

Dr. Liu achieved her dental degree from the Nova Southeastern University of College Dental Medicine and remains up-to-date with the latest advancements in dentistry. She strives to create healthy smiles that last through high-quality care. She accepts many dental insurances to keep her services affordable. If you have benefits you’re about to lose, contact our office today to request an appointment.