If you have dental insurance, you’re wisely protecting your smile—however, you should be aware of how to utilize your benefits to the fullest! But this is usually easier said than done; amidst all of the paperwork to fill out and appointments to schedule, it can sometimes be tough to get the most out of your coverage. Here are some tips from your dentist to help you maximize your dental insurance benefits to provide your smile with the coverage and care it needs.
1. Visit Your Dentist for Preventive Care
Visiting your dentist for biannual preventive care is one of the best things you can do for your smile—and fortunately, these benefits are often covered in most insurance plans! These routine visits give your dentist the opportunity to inspect your mouth for any undetected issues, and it also allows them to thoroughly clean your teeth at a level you cannot do yourself! Be sure to attend all of your routine visits before the year ends and your benefits expire.
2. Know Your Benefits & When They’re Set to Expire
Most dental insurance plans operate around a calendar-year basis, meaning that you’re usually given an annual maximum at the beginning of the year that will carry through the end of the year. This is the most that your plan will pay for approved services, and anything leftover at the end of the year simply expires without rolling over to the next year. Also be sure to know what your benefits actually include. Typically, preventive and restorative care is covered by most plans, as things like damaged teeth or gum disease can pose certain health risks.
3. Schedule Major Dental Work Accordingly
Sometimes certain dental work can take multiple visits to fully complete, meaning that it’s always in your best interest to schedule these appointments while you have coverage. If you need a certain treatment that exceeds your annual maximum, you can also consider scheduling part of it for the following calendar year. This way, you’re taking advantage of two separate annual maximums rather than just one.
4. Use a Flexible Spending Account (If You Have One)
Some employers offer flexible spending accounts (FSA) that you’re able to use in tandem with your dental insurance, but you must be sure to use your remaining dollars by the end of the year. With an FSA, you can reduce your taxable income and put that money aside for healthcare expenses. This way, you end up with more take home pay and greater tax savings, so you can better afford and plan for expenses such as dental work.
Your smile is one of the first things that people notice about you, so taking advantage of your dental insurance to protect it is a wise choice!
About the Practice
The team at Lake Nona Dental Group is honored to serve patients and families in the Orlando and St Cloud areas. The practice is proud to offer a wide range of available services including preventive, cosmetic, and restorative options. If you have any questions about the article or would like to arrange an appointment, you can contact the practice online to find an office near you.
