Each year, $152 billion in dental insurance benefits are wasted. These are hard-earned dental dollars that people are paying for dental insurance. The worst part is that they don’t even know what they’re missing out on! Dental insurance can be confusing, but if you know how to use it, you can save yourself hundreds while keeping your smile as healthy as possible. Read on to learn how you can save money by taking advantage of your plan while it’s still 2019.
Know Your Yearly Maximum
Your yearly maximum is the most that your dental insurance is willing to pay for your dental care in the upcoming year. This number will usually be around $1,000 to $1,250. Once the year ends, these benefits will reset whether you’ve used them or not. That means any part of your maximum that is unused will be gone forever. The key to taking full advantage of your insurance benefits is to know your maximum and to work hard to reach it before 2020 is here. That way, you won’t leave any hard-earned benefits on the table.
Use Your Deductible
Another important number to remember when it comes to your dental insurance is your deductible. This is a fee paid annually that unlocks your dental coverage for the upcoming year. However, just like your maximum, your deductible will reset when the clock strikes midnight on December 31st. So, once you’ve paid it, it’s in your best interest to wrap up any unfinished dental work before 2020 so you won’t have to pay an additional fee.
Schedule Another Dental Appointment
Millions of Americans only see their dentist once a year, or even none at all. This poor habit is not only putting people at risk for oral health problems, but if they have insurance, they’re also wasting money. Most dental insurance plans will cover preventive visits like routine checkups 100%, which makes these appointments a great way to cash in on your benefits. If you haven’t seen your dentist for a second time this year, schedule a visit to get closer to your maximum before it’s too late.
Watch Out for Changing Plans
Lastly, it’s important to know that unlike medical insurance, dental insurance can change frequently. However, this will usually occur during the renewal period at the end of the year. Whether your premiums go up, or your benefits go down, it’s a good idea to utilize your insurance plan while you know its exact terms in 2019.
Are you ready to start saving money on dentistry like a pro? Remember these tips to keep your mouth healthy and your pocketbook full.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Deborah Bishop has decades of dental experience and a passion for comprehensive care. She never wants patients to miss out on quality dentistry because of finances, which is why she is in-network with a variety of plans. For any questions, she can be reached through her website or by phone at (256) 882-5161.