5 Tips for Using Your Remaining Dental Benefits Before Year-End
As the year comes to a close, many of us take a look at what’s still left on our to-do lists. One thing you don’t want to overlook? Your remaining dental benefits. If you have dental insurance, chances are you’ve been paying into your plan all year. But if you don’t take advantage of your coverage before the year ends, you could lose out on the benefits you’ve already paid for.
Since dental insurance typically renews at the beginning of each year, many plans operate on the rule of “use it or lose it.” If you haven’t used all your benefits yet, now is the best time to schedule a visit. Below are five tips on how to make the most of your remaining benefits before they expire.
1. Schedule Preventive Care Before It’s Too Late
Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care, such as cleanings and exams, with little or no out-of-pocket cost to you. These visits are crucial to making sure your mouth stays healthy and catches any potential issues early. As the year draws to a close, however, many people neglect these regular check-ups. Don’t wait — schedule that cleaning today to keep your smile in top shape.
2. Avail of Your Benefits Toward Essential Treatments
If you have been putting off necessary treatments, now is a great opportunity to get scheduled. From a filling to a crown or even a root canal, it will be much less expensive if you use your dental coverage for these procedures. With your dental insurance timeline soon to reset, the clock is ticking to receive necessary care without paying out of pocket.
3. Review Your Dental Coverage
Take a few minutes to review your dental insurance plan. Most plans cover two cleanings per year, but you might also have coverage for more extensive services such as fillings, crowns, or even orthodontics. If you haven’t hit your maximum for the year, schedule any major procedures now so that you can maximize your benefits.
4. Plan for Continuing Care
If you need major dental work such as implants or orthodontics, ask your dentist if it’s possible to break up the treatment into two phases: part this year and the remainder next year. Splitting the procedures across two coverage periods allows you to maximize both years’ benefits, thereby minimizing your out-of-pocket expenses.
5. Don’t Forget Your Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
If your dental plan includes an FSA, use the remaining balance before it expires. While FSAs cover out-of-pocket costs for many dental procedures, most have a “use it or lose it” policy. Schedule any additional treatments that might be reimbursable under your FSA to ensure you get the most value from your remaining funds.
The end of the year is a great time to utilize your remaining dental benefits so that you can stay ahead in your oral health and not waste any benefits you have already paid for. Whether it be preventative care or major treatments, now is the time to act. Don’t let your benefits go to waste. Contact The Cowboy Dentist today to schedule your appointment before the end of the year.
