At Coastal Dental Care, we understand that dental insurance can sometimes be a puzzle, and many patients don’t realize that the end of the year is a critical time to use their dental benefits. Insurance plans typically run on a calendar-year basis, and many of your benefits will expire on December 31st. If you don’t use your benefits before the year ends, you could lose them entirely. Maximizing your benefits can help you save money on dental care and prevent unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses.
Take Advantage of Preventive Care
One of the best ways to save on dental care is to take full advantage of your insurance plan’s coverage for preventive services. These services usually include regular cleanings, exams, and X-rays, which are essential for maintaining oral health. Preventive care is typically covered at 100%, so you don’t have to pay anything out of pocket for these services—making it an excellent opportunity to keep your smile healthy.
Many dental problems, such as cavities and gum disease, develop over time, often without noticeable symptoms. By attending your routine check-ups before the year ends, you’re ensuring that potential problems are caught early, which can save you money on more expensive treatments later on. If you’ve missed your cleaning or exam this year, now is the time to schedule an appointment and ensure you take full advantage of your benefits.
Don’t Wait for Last-Minute Appointments
The end of the year is a busy time for dental offices, and many patients rush to use their benefits in the final months. If you wait too long to schedule your appointment, it may be difficult to find an available time, and you could risk not using your benefits at all. Avoid the last-minute rush and book your appointment early to ensure you get the care you need before the year ends.
Some treatments, such as fillings or crowns, may require multiple visits. If you wait until the end of the year, you may not have enough time to complete the treatment and take full advantage of your benefits. Booking your appointment early allows you to avoid this issue and gives your dentist time to provide the necessary care.
Get the Treatment You Need Now
Many patients put off necessary treatments, whether filling, crown, or cosmetic work like whitening or veneers. If you need treatment but have been putting it off due to cost concerns, now is the time to act. With the help of your dental insurance, you can reduce your financial burden by having your procedure partially covered.
If you’re unsure whether your insurance covers a specific treatment, it’s always a good idea to talk to your dental office. At Coastal Dental Care, we’re happy to discuss your options and help you understand what your plan covers. Whether you need a simple cleaning or more advanced work, don’t wait until the new year to get the care you need.
Preventative vs. Restorative Care
While preventive care should be your priority, it’s also a great time to consider restorative treatments. If you’ve been postponing necessary procedures like fillings, crowns, or even treatments for gum disease, now is the time to schedule them. Dental insurance plans often cover a portion of the cost of restorative procedures, so using your remaining benefits before they expire is beneficial.
By taking care of your dental health now, you can avoid more serious and expensive procedures in the future. Don’t let untreated issues worsen, as this could lead to more extensive and costly treatments. Use your remaining benefits to take care of any issues now, and set yourself up for a healthy, happy smile in the coming year.