The end of the year is nearing, and while we know you’re busy making holiday plans, there’s one thing that shouldn’t be left off your to-do list – your dental care. If your insurance follows a “use it or lose it” rule, now’s the time to make sure you’re getting the most out of your benefits before they vanish on December 31st.

Let’s dive into how you can prioritize your dental health and maximize your insurance to ensure you’re smiling bright well into the new year!

Defining ‘Use It or Lose It’

Most dental insurance policies have an annual maximum, which means they will only cover a particular amount of dental work per year. What’s the catch? If you don’t use those benefits by the end of the year, they will expire, leaving you to pay for treatments out of pocket the next year. This is what is known as “use it or lose it.”

Why Should You Put Your Dental Health First?

Here’s why scheduling your dental appointments before the year ends is a win-win for both your health and your wallet:

Don’t Waste Your Benefits: Since your dental insurance is already paid for, why not make use of it? Insurance frequently covers routine exams, cleanings, and preventative care. If you haven’t utilized all of the benefits offered by your plan this year, it’s time to put yourself first and receive the medical attention you need.
Avoid the Holiday Rush: Dental offices typically get busy as December draws near, with people attempting to fit in last-minute appointments. Make an early reservation to avoid the year-end rush and ensure your teeth receive the care they require.
Avoid Serious (and Expensive) Issues: If left addressed, minor dental ailments like cavities can develop into much bigger difficulties. You can save more costly and invasive procedures down the line by using your insurance for preventative care now.
Get a Head Start on Serious Care: Do you require a crown or dental implant or something more complex? Starting now makes the therapy more affordable by allowing you to profit from this year’s benefits and positioning yourself to benefit from future years as well.

Best Ways to Maximize Your ‘Use It or Lose It’ Dental Benefits?

Not sure how to get the most out of your dental insurance? Here are some easy ways to prioritize your oral health and maximize your plan before it resets:

Set Up Your Continual Exams and Cleanings: Two annual cleanings are typically covered by dental plans and are crucial to maintaining the health of your teeth. If you’ve only had one this year, make an appointment for your second cleaning today.
Address small concerns right away: Have you been informed that a crown or filling is necessary? While your insurance still covers these procedures, it is preferable to have them done now.
Make the most of preventative care: A lot of insurance policies pay for preventive measures like sealants and fluoride treatments in total. When your coverage is still in effect, it makes sense to get these treatments completed to shield your teeth from decay and other possible problems.
Become Ready for Significant Treatments: Starting early enables you to split the cost across two benefit periods if you require more involved dental work, like a tooth extraction or root canal. As a result, you minimize out-of-pocket costs and increase your insurance benefits.

The Risks of Delayed Dental Care

Neglecting to use your benefits doesn’t just mean wasted coverage – it can also have serious consequences for your dental health. Here’s what can happen if you delay care:

Cavities Can Get Worse: If left untreated, small cavities have the potential to get considerably worse and require extractions or root canals.
Gum Health Is Subject to Decline: Plaque and tartar accumulation might result in gum disease if cleanings aren’t done on a regular basis. This can develop into periodontitis if left untreated, which could necessitate surgery or lead to tooth loss.

It’s always less expensive to fix minor issues now than significant issues later. By utilizing your benefits for early intervention, you can avoid future financial hardship.

Smile Brighter with Us!

At Exceptional Dentistry of Chandler, we’re committed to helping you make the most of your dental insurance before the year is up. Whether you need a routine checkup or a more complex procedure, our team is here to help you prioritize your dental health and keep your smile in great shape.

Don’t wait until it’s too late – schedule your appointment today!