5 Simple Ways to Maximize Your Dental Insurance Benefits

Since medical insurance and dental insurance are two entirely different things, you must pay a monthly premium for each one. Of course, since you’re shelling out extra money to keep your oral and overall health in optimal condition, you’ll want to take advantage of your dental benefits while you still have them. With that in mind, continue reading as we discuss five simple ways you can maximize your dental insurance benefits.

Don’t Neglect Preventive Dental Care

A healthy smile requires more than just brushing and flossing. Visiting your dentist bi-annually for checkups and cleanings is crucial to detect, prevent, and treat dental problems before they become complications. Since preventive care plays an important role in maintaining good overall health, most dental insurance plans will cover it entirely or at little cost to you. Preventive dentistry services include oral examinations, professional teeth cleanings, and routine X-rays. Make sure you attend all your preventive visits before your benefits expire!

Understand Your Coverage

Even though most dental insurance plans only cover preventive dental care, you may be able to use your benefits for other types of dental work. For example, if you have a damaged or decayed tooth that requires a filling, your insurance may cover it since it’s considered restorative. Similarly, dental crowns might be covered if they’re considered medically necessary. However, every policy is different, so make sure you review the details of your specific plan to understand what’s covered.

Schedule Major Procedures in Advance

Most complex treatments and procedures require multiple appointments to complete. Therefore, if you need dental work that exceeds your annual maximum, ask your dental team if you can schedule part of this year and the rest next year. By using this strategy, you can use two annual maximums instead of just one. Optimally using your coverage in this way can help reduce your out-of-pocket expenses significantly!

Know When Your Benefits Expire

Every dental insurance plan is unique and varies from person to person. However, most tend to operate on a calendar-year basis. At the beginning of each year, you’re given an annual maximum, which is the most your plan will pay for approved services. Anything left unused by December 31^st will expire and your benefits will not roll over into the new year. That’s why it’s important to know when your annual maximum resets. That said, if you have any outstanding treatments, it’s a good idea to get them done before the year ends.

Use Your Flexible Spending Account Dollars (FSA)

In addition to their usual dental insurance policy, some people have a flexible spending account (FSA) that has tax-free money set aside for dental expenses. Like dental insurance, these funds may expire at the end of the year. Try and use what’s left in your account before it’s gone!

Use the tips outlined above to maximize your dental insurance benefits. That way, you can start the new year with a beautiful, healthy smile and more money in your pocket!

About the Author

Dr. Corey Martinez is passionate about helping patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health. He earned his dental doctorate at the Indiana University School of Dentistry. Dr. Martinez and his team at Martinez Dentistry are always willing to go the extra mile to ensure your complete satisfaction with every visit. If you have any questions about your dental insurance benefits, we’re more than happy to help in any way we can. Visit our website or call (765) 724-7729 to speak to a member of our team.