Every month, you invest in dental insurance by paying your premium, but if you’re like many adults, you might think you still can’t afford to visit your dentist. Dentistry can be expensive; however, if you have dental insurance, it’s more affordable than you might realize. The small fee you pay each month can help you maintain a healthy smile to lower both your oral and general health expenses, but if you don’t act fact, you will use your coverage. At the end of the year, your benefits will expire. Here are 3 reasons to maximize your benefits before it’s too late.
1. Preventive dentistry saves money.
The American Dental Association recommends everyone visits their dentist at least twice a year. Unfortunately, many adults don’t believe they will save money by only scheduling an appointment when there’s a problem, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.
Preventive dentistry stops common problems from occurring to reduce the likeliness of a costly treatment in the future. Research shows every $1 spent on prevention can save you as much as $50 on restorative costs. Your dental insurance makes it easy to see your dentist every 6 months because most plans cover preventive services 100% to save money down the road.
2. A healthy smile supports your general health.
Your oral health is directly linked to your general health. Certain dental issues can increase your risk of various medical problems, like heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, or nutritional deficiencies. Your dental insurance allows you to quickly treat oral health concerns before they leave a lasting mark on your smile.
After reaching your annual deductible, your insurance policy can be used to help offset the cost of restorative treatments. Most plans cover 50% to 80% until reaching your yearly limit. Less than 3 % of Americans exceed their annual allowance, so you can restore a healthy smile without worrying about a large bill.
3. Your dental insurance expires.
Unfortunately, your dental insurance doesn’t last forever. At the end of the year, any coverage you haven’t used will expire. You won’t be reimbursed for your premiums or deductible if you don’t reach your limit. Not to mention, nothing will carry over into the new year. You could be throwing hundreds to thousands of dollars away if you don’t maximize your policy before the clock strikes midnight on December 31st.
Invest in a Healthy Smile
Your dental insurance is a monthly investment that’s designed to ensure your smile stays healthy for a lifetime. Dental insurance can be confusing, but your dentist will work on your behalf to help you utilize your coverage to reduce any out-of-pocket cost. Don’t wait until it’s too late to reach your oral health goals without draining your wallet.
About Dr. Nirav Patel
Dr. Patel believes everyone should have access to affordable dental care. He is in-network with many leading insurance carriers, including Aetna Dental, Delta Dental, and MetLife Dental. If you need an appointment before the end of the year, or you have questions about your policy, contact our office today.