If you’re one of the millions with dental insurance, you’ve probably heard this before: “use it or lose it.” But what does this really mean for you and your dental insurance plan? It’s a reminder that if you don’t use your dental benefits before the end of the year, you may lose them, and nobody wants to throw money away.
Dental insurance operates on a calendar-year basis, meaning your benefits start fresh each year. However, dental benefits won’t roll over, unlike some health insurance policies. That can lead to a loss of unused coverage if you do not take advantage of it before the end of each year.
Now, let’s dive into how this works, what you can do to avoid losing out, and how to use your remaining dental coverage wisely.
Understanding the “Use It or Lose It” Rule
Many dental insurance policies have a “use it or lose it” rule, and it’s important to understand how it affects your benefits. Most dental plans have an annual maximum-the most considerable amount your insurer will pay for your dental work in any given year. Once you’ve reached that threshold, your insurance provider won’t cover additional services until the following year.
What if you don’t reach that yearly maximum? Quite simply: use it or lose it. Even though you are paying your monthly premium all year round, you could lose all that coverage if you don’t schedule those preventive visits, cleanings, or fillings before your benefits reset.
Staying on top of your dental insurance timeline is important.
Why is it so important to know where you stand with your dental insurance plan?
Dental insurance coverage doesn’t last forever. Your plan will start fresh at the beginning of each year: your annual maximum and deductible will be reset. Even if most of your benefits are used to cover checkups, cleanings, and X-rays, a portion of your coverage might remain and be used for other services.
Don’t let your dental insurance go unused. If you’ve been putting off necessary treatments or even routine visits, now is the time to fill your schedule with appointments. By not waiting until the last minute, you avoid such inconveniences as dealing with your dental office’s hectic schedule; it’s always better to plan your visit to get the much-needed care on time.
How to Make the Most of Your Dental Coverage
Your dental plan is much more than a safety net for emergencies. By using your benefits wisely, you can protect both your oral health and your wallet. Here are some tips to ensure that you make the most of your coverage:
- Schedule your routine cleanings and exams. These visits are often fully covered and help prevent costly treatments later.
- Consider getting treatments before the year ends: If you have been holding off on treatments such as fillings or crowns, now is a great time to use your benefits before they reset.
- Check your benefits: Knowing your plan’s annual maximum and deductible will help you prioritize which treatments to schedule.
- Look ahead: Dental procedures, such as crowns or deep cleanings, may require multiple visits. Use your remaining benefits now to plan for next year.
Don’t Wait – Schedule Your Dental Care Today
When your dental insurance timeline nears its end, it is easy to forget about the benefits you still have. But don’t let your hard-earned dental coverage go to waste. If you haven’t used your benefits, now’s the time to act.
At Advanced Solutions Family Dental, we want you to make the most of your plan before the year closes. Our team can help you understand your benefits, prioritize the care you need, and schedule your appointments before the end-of-year rush. Don’t let the clock run out — schedule your visit today, and we’ll help you make the most of your dental coverage.