Tick tock: Don't Let Your Dental Insurance Benefits Go to Waste
With 2018 nearing its end, it's time to talk about dental insurance policies and flexible spending. Most dental insurance plans will expire at the end of the year, and any remaining benefits or dollars will be lost for good. If you have outstanding treatment or you are in need of a professional dental cleaning or exam, now may be the best time to do it!
These are the 4 reasons you should definitely give your dentist a call and make an appointment now.
Reason #1: Unused Benefits Get Wasted
Every dental insurance plan has a yearly maximum and this is the most money that the plan will pay for your dental treatments within one full year. While the amount varies among insurance companies and plans, the yearly maximum usually renews each year on January 1st (check with insurance if it is calendar year plan). Usually such benefits do not roll over to the next year and must be used by December 31st. So if you have unused benefits left for 2018, remember that by the 1st of January 2019 they will be forfeited and lost.
Reason #2: Take Advantage of Your Benefits
If you are paying your dental insurance every month, then take advantage of it and use it to your benefit. If you are not going to use your benefits, your insurance company keeps it, and it will all be a waste for you. Even if you don’t need any dental treatment, it is still really important to get regular dental check up and cleaning to help prevent and detect any early signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer and other dental problems.
Reason #3: Your Annual Deductible Resets
Your dental insurance deductible is the amount of money that you must pay to your dentist out of pocket before your insurance company will pay for any dental services. This fee varies from one plan to another and like your yearly maximums, they don’t roll over to the next year. If you have used your insurance at all this year, you’ve probably paid some towards your deductible already. In fact you may have already paid your deductible and what’s left if your coverage.
Reason #4: Dental Conditions Can Worsen!
Many patients need dental treatment, whether it’s a professional cleaning of your teeth, or restorations to treat bad decay. By postponing a dental treatment, you are risking more extensive and expensive treatments in the future. Addressing dental issues now, rather than putting off treatment can prevent problems from getting worse, which could save you even more money compared to waiting. What may be a simple cavity now, could turn into a tooth loss later or root canal later.
If you're interested in visiting us for cosmetic, restorative or general dental services, and would like us to assess your current dental insurance benefits, we'd be happy to help. Contact ALERIS SALEM DENTAL CENTER for further information, and to reserve a visit with Dr. Elena Siniaver before year's end. The fall season is flying by and 2018 will be here before we know it. Don't wait too long, your smile is counting on you!
