If you pay for dental insurance, you only have a few months left to take advantage of the coverage offered by your plan before 2020 comes to a close. But why is it so crucial to act now, though? What’s the harm in waiting until January? Keep reading below to find out why this mindset could cost you a lot of money and even put your oral health at risk. You’ll also learn from a dentist in Dublin how to get the most out of your insurance benefits and keep your smile healthy into 2021!
What’s the Rush?
You might be wondering why there’s a hurry to maximize your dental benefits before the end of 2020. That’s because most dental insurance plans renew the second the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve. Any benefits that you didn’t use in 2020 will not roll over into 2021.
This is a big deal when you consider the fact that most people have a very low deductible they must pay (around $50 on average) before their benefits kick in. If you still have unfinished dental work, now is the perfect time to get it taken care of.
Your Money and Oral Health are On the Line
The average dental insurance plan provides about $1,250 of coverage a year. However, the average person only uses about $323 of care annually, which wastes almost $1,000 in benefits.
Not only does this waste coverage you’re already paying for with your premiums, but it can also leave you more susceptible to cavities and other oral health issues. Luckily, there’s still time to do something about it.
The Easiest Way to Maximize Your Benefits
Most plans fully cover two preventive checkups and cleanings a year. Basic restorative procedures like fillings are usually covered at around 80%, while major procedures, such as dental crowns, are typically only covered up to 50%.
The best way to get the most out of your plan is to see your dentist twice a year. Not only will your teeth be cleaner, but oral health problems like tooth decay and gum disease can be spotted and treated early on. This saves you from requiring more costly and extensive procedures in the future.
If you haven’t visited your dentist for a routine checkup twice this year, be sure to schedule one before 2020 ends. It’s just as beneficial for your bank account as it is for your smile!
About the Author
Dr. Eric Buck obtained his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Ohio State University College of Dentistry. Since then, he has maintained memberships in several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Ohio Dental Association. No matter what insurance plan you have, his team will do their utmost to maximize your benefits. If you’re looking for a dentist in Dublin, OH, you can contact Distinctive Smiles of Dublin at 614-792-1800.