The new year is almost here, and your dental insurance benefits are about to reset. Unfortunately, unused benefits can’t be carried over, so if you don’t want to lose out on the savings they entitle you to, you’ll need to start making plans to utilize them now. If you’re not sure where to start, a dentist in Oklahoma City has 4 tips that you can use as a guideline.
1. Make Sure You Understand What Your Plan Offers
First of all, it’s important that you know exactly what benefits you’re entitled to. Each plan has what’s known as a maximum – in other words, the absolute most they’ll pay for coverage during the year. If you’ve paid your premiums and met your deductible, your insurance will typically help pay for preventive care in addition various procedures (from basic treatments such as fillings to major restorative work such as dental crown placement). Take the time to familiarize yourself with your plan and figure out which benefits you have already used this year – as well as what is still available!
2. Talk to Your Dentist
You should take the time to go over your plan with your dentist and their dental team about your dental insurance. The level of coverage you’re entitled to will vary from practice to practice depending on whether the dentist is in-network with your provider or not. Learning how the coverage will be handled ahead of time will make it less likely for you to be surprised by additional fees later.
3. Schedule a Checkup and Cleaning
Looking for an easy way to use your benefits? Schedule a dental checkup – especially if you haven’t already had two this year. Most of the time, your policy will offer full coverage for preventive examinations and cleanings; they might also pay 80% or more for dental sealants, fluoride treatments, and other procedures that help stop cavities and gum disease from ever occurring in the first place. By seeing the dentist on a regular basis every six months, you’ll maximize your dental insurance coverage while also preventing more severe oral health issues that typically require more costly treatment.
4. Think Ahead
If you have met your deductible, try to schedule any necessary dental treatments before the end of the year; you’ll minimize your own personal cost by utilizing this year’s benefits without having to worry about next year’s deductible. Sometimes a procedure requires at least two appointments; in these cases, it’s a good idea to pay for the first visit before the end of the year and then use your 2020 benefits to take care of the rest.
If you follow these tips and stay proactive with your dental care, you’ll get your money’s worth out of your dental insurance while also keeping your pearly whites bright and healthy.
About the Author
Dr. Brad Mitchell earned his dental degree from the University of Oklahoma and is a proud member of the Oklahoma Dental Association. His practice, Mitchell Smile Design, is in-network with Delta Dental Insurance and can accept other plans as well. To schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (405) 755-2670.
