Have you used all your dental benefits this year? Although you may think you have maximized their value, less than 3% of Americans meet or exceed their coverage every year. As a result, you likely have several remaining that are about to expire. If you do not use them by visiting your dentist in Cary before the year ends, you are losing potentially thousands of dollars that could be used to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Don’t Lose Your Benefits
By paying your monthly premiums, you have access to comprehensive preventive benefits. Most insurances cover routine cleanings, checkups, and x-rays 100%. This allows you to visit your dentist twice a year for no out-of-pocket cost or for a small co-payment.
If a problem arises throughout the year, you can quickly reinstate your dental health using your coverage. After paying your deductible, your provider will pay 50% to 80% of restorative treatments depending on your specific policy.
Unfortunately, your benefits expire on December 31st. If you do not use all your coverage, any remaining allowance will not carry over to the new year. In addition, you will not be reimbursed for the premiums or deductibles.
Invest in Your Oral Health
Now is the perfect time to use your remaining coverage to get a healthy smile. If you have not seen your family dentist in Cary in the past 6 months, you may have a dental issue that has not been treated, like tooth decay. If you wait until the new year to schedule an appointment, the cavity can worsen. As a result, a simple filling may no longer be enough. Instead, you may need a more invasive and costly procedure, like a root canal.
If you have a complex oral health issue you have been putting off having treated, now is the ideal time to have it done. If the fee for the treatment exceeds your remaining allowance, your dentist can split the cost of the procedure into the new year.
Maximize Your Dental Benefits
You have paid into your dental coverage all year. Do not let your benefits go to waste. To maximize the value of your policy, it is best to choose an in-network dentist. They have pre-negotiated rates with your provider to reduce the amount you need to pay out-of-pocket.
While it is best to choose one who is in-network, you still have the freedom to visit anyone who accepts your insurance. You can use your coverage, but you will need to pay the difference between your insurance’s allowable amounts and the dentist’s fees.
Don’t Wait. Schedule an Appointment
As the end of the year approaches, keep your oral health a priority. Use any remaining dental benefits before they expire for a healthy smile.
About Dr. Darren Koch
For the past 17 years, Dr. Darren Koch has provided his patients with advanced dental services. As an in-network dentist, he works with leading insurance carriers to keep treatments affordable. If you need an appointment before the end of the year, contact our office today.
