Your Dental Insurance Benefits Are About to Expire—Here’s What to Do

As the year comes to a close, you might be busy planning holiday activities, gifts, and celebrations. But there's something else you shouldn't forget—your dental insurance benefits! Many people don't realize that their dental insurance follows a "Use It or Lose It" rule. If you don't take advantage of them before the end of the year, you could be missing out on services that you've already paid for. 

Let’s explore why it's crucial to act before the year is up and how you can make the most of your dental insurance benefits.

Why Does "Use It or Lose It" Matter?

Most dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year, which means they reset on January 1st. If you haven't used your benefits by then, any unused amount does not carry over. This can result in hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars lost in unused coverage. 

Here are some reasons why acting now is important:

• Unused Benefits Go to Waste: If you skip routine exams or necessary treatments, you're leaving money on the table.
• Prevent Bigger Problems: Delaying a dental visit can turn minor issues into major problems, which can be more costly to fix later.
• Premiums Already Paid: You’ve been paying for insurance all year. Make sure you get the value you deserve by using your benefits.

Maximize Your Dental Benefits Before the Year Ends

Here’s how you can make the most of your dental benefits before they expire:

1. Schedule a Dental Check-Up

Routine exams and cleanings are often covered 100% by dental insurance. Scheduling a visit before the year ends can help you catch any issues early and use your benefits to cover the cost. Here's what to look forward to in a check-up:

• Professional Cleaning: Helps prevent plaque build-up, cavities, and gum disease.
• X-Rays: Allows your dentist to detect problems you might not even feel.
• Oral Cancer Screening: A routine check-up might include a screening, which is vital for catching issues early.

2. Complete Pending Treatments

If you’ve been delaying necessary dental treatments, now is the time to act. Your dental insurance might cover a portion of procedures like:

• Fillings: Treat cavities before they worsen.
• Crowns and Bridges: Protect weakened teeth or replace missing ones.
• Periodontal Treatments: Address gum issues before they escalate.

These treatments can be costly if postponed, but your insurance might significantly reduce the out-of-pocket expense if you act now.

3. Start Multi-Step Procedures Now

Some dental treatments, like crowns or dental implants, require multiple appointments. Starting these procedures before the end of the year can allow you to split the cost between two benefit periods—this year and the next. This way, you can use both sets of benefits to cover the expense.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While maximizing your benefits, it's easy to make mistakes. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Not Checking What’s Covered

Before booking an appointment, double-check with your insurance provider to understand what’s included. Benefits vary between plans, so knowing your specific coverage can help you plan smarter.

2. Ignoring Preventative Care

Skipping routine care is a common mistake. Many insurance plans cover preventative care completely, and it can help avoid major dental issues later. Don’t miss out on this benefit!

3. Forgetting to Ask About Discounts

Some dental offices offer discounts for patients with specific insurances. It doesn’t hurt to ask if there are any deals you can take advantage of when scheduling your appointment.

Tips for Scheduling Last-Minute Appointments

It’s no secret that dental offices get busy at the year’s end. Here’s how to secure an appointment before your benefits expire:

• Book ASAP: The sooner you call, the better your chances are of getting a convenient time.
• Be Flexible: If you can, be open to early morning or late afternoon slots.
• Join a Waitlist: Ask if the office has a waitlist in case someone cancels.
• Combine Visits: If you need multiple procedures, consider bundling them into one visit to save time.

Don't Miss Out on Your Dental Insurance Benefits

Time is running out! Don’t wait until it's too late to use your dental benefits. Schedule your appointment today to take full advantage of your coverage before the year ends. Give yourself the gift of a healthy smile and make the most of what you’ve paid for.

Call Royal Oak Family Dental today to book your appointment. Let’s ensure you don’t miss out on your dental benefits!