4 Tips to Maximize Dental Insurance Before It Expires

Believe it or not, 2023 is right around the corner, which means your dental insurance benefits are about to expire. Although 59% of Americans have dental coverage, less than 3% meet or exceed their annual limits. You’ve been paying for your policy all year, and don’t lose the money you have spent. Here are 4 ways to maximize dental insurance benefits before your coverage resets at the end of the year.

1. Schedule a Cleaning and Checkup

Dental insurance focuses on prevention to stop common oral health issues from occurring, like tooth decay and gum disease. Not only does it prevent tooth loss, but it also reduces long-term dental expenses by lessening the risk of needing costly treatments later. Research has found that you can save $50 on emergency and restorative services for every $1 spent on prevention. The American Dental Association recommends scheduling a cleaning and checkup every 6 months. You can commit to your semi-annual appointments, even if money is tight. After a copayment, your dental insurance covers 100% of the cost of preventive dentistry.

2. Don’t Delay Dental Procedures

A minor dental concern can turn into a big problem if you delay having the issue treated. You don’t have to worry about a large dental bill because you can use your insurance benefits to offset the cost of common restorative procedures, like root canals, crowns, or tooth extractions. Your insurance can pay 50% to 80% of the cost after reaching your deductible. You don’t have to wait for a small cavity to turn into a threatening infection. You will avoid a dental emergency and lower your overall oral health expenses.

3. Choose the Best Dentist

Your dental insurance will recommend a dentist that’s in your network to benefit from more coverage at the time of services. They have pre-negotiated rates with specific dental practices to keep dentistry affordable. You have the freedom to visit an out-of-network dentist that accepts your policy. You can still use your benefits, but you’ll have to pay the difference between the dentist’s fees and your insurance’s allowable coverage.

4. Don’t Wait for Your Benefits to Expire

Your dental insurance doesn’t last forever. It will expire at the end of the year, and you’ll lose anything you don’t use. Nothing will accumulate into 2023, and you won’t be reimbursed for your premiums or deductibles. You could throw hundreds to thousands of dollars away. 

There’s still time to use your dental insurance. Your dentist will work on your behalf with your insurance to maximize your annual benefits to keep a healthy smile affordable. You can invest in optimal oral health and lower future dental expenses by using your coverage before it’s too late.

About Dr. Neal Graber

Dr. Graber achieved his dental degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and regularly pursues higher education in advanced services, like CEREC, dental implants, and sedation. He works with many insurance companies for cost-effective care. If you need an appointment before the end of the year, contact our office today.