Each year, millions of people forgo thousands of dollars in unused dental benefits. Why? While there are many potential reasons, one might assume the leading cause is time. Or maybe it’s fear? No matter why people choose not to visit their dentist in Lincoln each year, the sad reality is the advantages that come with these policies are often freely given up, leaving patients without the care they need and deserve. Read on to learn why it’s in your best interest to use your benefits now instead of waiting until next year.
The Truth: Benefits Don’t Rollover
If you look at most dental insurance plans, you’ll see their coverage is good for one calendar year. From January 1 to December 31, you are free to use your plan to take better care of your smile. Whether it is preventive, restorative, or emergency dental care, you can rest easier knowing your dental insurance carrier is available to help lower your out-of-pocket expenses.
However, if you only find time for a single dental checkup and cleaning or convince yourself to wait until 2022 to schedule that root canal your dentist recommended, you will regret your decision. Why? Dental insurance benefits don’t roll over, so the money left over at the end of the year will be returned to your insurer at midnight on December 31. This means these funds that could have been used to improve your oral health this year are now no longer available for use.
Why Use Your Benefits?
The unfortunate reality of how most dental insurance plans work may not be something you can change, but you can choose to make the most of your policy. Instead of allowing this money to go unused, you can put it toward improving the state of your oral health. Here’s how:
- Preventive care is essential to avoiding tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. Each year, you receive two dental checkups and cleanings that are usually covered at 80-100%. By taking time to see your dentist, you can allow a professional to examine your oral cavity to ensure no problems are forming that could pose a risk to your smile later on. Also, you won’t need to wait until you get paid to seek this type of care. You can go see your dentist now!
- Seeing an in-network professional helps you save even more. While you do have the option to see someone out-of-network, you’re likely to pay more for the services you receive because they are not in a contract with your insurance carrier. In-network professionals negotiate fees and services to help you pay the lowest possible price.
- Once you meet your deductible, your dental insurance company will agree to pay more. This is essential, especially if you’re recommended for a costlier treatment (i.e., root canal therapy, tooth extraction).
Finding ways to maximize dental insurance benefits isn’t always easy, so if you’re struggling to get the most out of your plan before 2021 is over, don’t hesitate to ask someone. Their expertise can help you save thousands while better preparing your smile for the coming year.
About the Author
Dr. Louis Olberding believes in providing patients with comprehensive, personalized treatment plans. Earning his DDS at the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry in 1999, he has been practicing at his current office since 2003. Leading a team of expert professionals, he will work with you to establish ways to improve your smile with the help of your dental insurance. His team will find ways to maximize your policy without causing you to pay more out of pocket for the care you receive. To learn how to take advantage of your plan, contact us at (402) 488-2325.