The year just seems to slip away faster than we can imagine. With work, family, and the holidays taking up the time, dental visits can easily become bottom priorities. But when the year is coming to a close, it’s a good idea to check your dental insurance policy. The majority of policies carry a “use it or lose it” clause, which means that unused benefits won’t be carried over when the calendar year turns over. Learning to use dental benefits to their fullest extent before they run out will save your smile and your money.

Know What Your Plan Pays

Every dental policy is unique, but most have an annual limit – the most your insurance will pay for care in a year. Most also offer full or partial coverage for preventive treatments like exams, cleanings, and X-rays. In addition to keeping your mouth healthy, these visits are usually free or low-cost to you.

To get the most out of your plan, look at your policy information or ask your dental team. They will tell you what treatments are fully covered or partially covered, so you can plan the most beneficial services before your dental insurance runs out.

Schedule Preventive Care Before It’s Too Late

Preventive check-ups are a nuisance, but they are the foundation of long-term oral health. Cleanings avoid the buildup of plaque and catch tiny problems before they are painful or costly. Skipping these check-ups could mean skipping signs of early tooth decay or gum disease, which costs more down the line to correct.

Get a quick checkup now to spare yourself the trouble and expense of future procedures. Plus, using your benefits for preventive care means that the money you’ve already invested in your insurance will really be worth it.

Max Out Your Coverage by Combining Treatments

If you have been putting off a filling, crown, or other treatment, it’s time to schedule an appointment. Scheduling your care based on your dental insurance and dental coverage will reap the most that is still within your annual allowance. Some actually prefer to stagger treatments during December and January to stay within their dental insurance period with a minimal amount of out-of-pocket costs.

This strategy is especially helpful if you’re close to reaching your plan’s annual maximum or considering multiple treatments. A well-timed approach can make your coverage go further and prevent benefits from going unused.

Avoid the Year-End Appointment Rush

By fall, many dental offices are packed with last-minute appointments. Everyone suddenly recalls their unused benefits, and space in the schedule becomes limited. Scheduling early means more flexibility, better appointment times, and the comfort of knowing your benefits won’t slip away from you.

The sooner you schedule, the greater your chances of completing your treatments before your plan renewals. Waiting too long may leave you rushing or not at all.

Your dental benefits are part of what you’ve earned all year round. Don’t let them go to waste. By familiarizing yourself with your plan, making preventive care a priority, and planning, you can maximize dental benefits and enjoy a healthy smile with minimal worry.

At Dental Care of Morrisville, we assist you in using your benefits effectively before they lapse. Book your appointment today and ensure this year’s coverage counts before it’s too late.