It’s that time of the year again! As we are getting busy shopping and getting ready for the festive holidays, we should also take time out to take care of ourselves! If you have dental insurance, you can actually save hundreds of dollars by maximizing your insurance benefits. What can be a better gift for yourself than a better and healthier smile?
If your dental insurance runs through calendar year, it may be a wise idea to utilize your insurance that you have been paying for. Here are some good reasons for you to do so…
1. Save money with your yearly maximum. For most insurance policies, the cycle ends at the end of the year. This means that for the remaining amount of benefit you have left for your yearly maximum, it will all be gone when next year arrives. You can save a significant amount of money by utilizing your benefits, especially if you have pending treatments. Insurance companies count on this to make millions of dollars from patients who pay for their premiums and don’t use them! Remember, it is your responsibility to check your benefits. Insurance companies certainly won’t remind you to spend money that they can potentially save.
2. Annual deductible also resets when your insurance is renewed. This is your out-of-pocket expense that you can save if you complete your recommended treatment this year. If you wait till next year, you will end up paying your deductible again, which means more expense for you!
3. Monthly premiums are what you are paying for your dental insurance. Since you are paying it, you should be using it. Even if you have a healthy mouth, you should still look into getting your regular check-up, x-rays, and cleanings. There is nothing wrong with being proactive with your oral health. In fact, by taking care of your mouth, you are making your money spent for your insurance worthwhile.
4. Dental problems can worsen, especially if left untreated. By delaying your treatment, the problem can end up being more extensive and ultimately more costly. Why risk the chance of having pain and complications when you can take care of it now while it is simple?
5. Fee increase commonly happens every year. This can end up with higher co-pay for the patients. So while you use up the rest of your yearly allowance, you are also avoiding possibility of paying more.
6. Flexible Spending Account (FSA) resets each cycle as well. This is something established with your employer. If you have them, it may be smart to use them before losing them. Check what your remaining balance and take advantage of the benefit before this year ends.
We understand how busy we can get, especially during this time of the year. However, you should take time out to take full advantage of the benefits you have paid for to take care of your oral health and save money in the long run. Call your dentist to schedule an appointment and use those benefits!