As the year 2023 draws to a close, it’s essential to remind you that your dental insurance benefits are about to expire. If you haven’t already taken advantage of these benefits, don’t fret; there’s still time! At SmileMclean Dentistry in McLean, we want to help you make the most of your dental insurance before the year ends. Here’s a handy guide on how to do just that.
Dental Benefits Don’t Roll Over
Most dental insurance plans have one crucial detail in common – your benefits do not roll over to the next year. That means, if you’ve been paying for insurance throughout the year, any unused benefits will go to waste. To ensure you’re getting the most out of your plan, it’s time to contact us and schedule your appointment.
Understanding Dental Benefits
Dental benefits are the services covered by your dental insurance plan. While these services can vary from one plan to another, most health insurance providers clearly specify the types of dental treatments they cover.
What’s Typically Covered
Oral insurance plans generally cover a range of services, including preventive care, fillings, root canals, oral surgery, and crowns. Some plans may also include restorative and orthodontic treatments such as braces, dentures, Invisalign, and bridges.
Your Maximum Benefit
When you pay your monthly insurance premiums, you’re essentially paying for coverage up to a certain limit – your annual maximum. This amount represents the maximum sum your insurance will contribute within a year. Once the year ends, your benefits reset, and you’ll start building towards that maximum all over again. It’s essential to make the most of these benefits to avoid losing out on your investment.
Understand Your Deductible
The deductible is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. Most insurance plans use a 100-80-50 structure to specify their contribution to different dental services. This structure means that preventive care could be 100% covered, basic treatments 80% covered, and major dental procedures covered at 50%, but these figures may vary from plan to plan. Additionally, some insurance companies may not cover cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening or crowns.
100% Dental Coverage on Preventive Dental Procedures
Dental insurance isn’t solely about fixing dental issues; it’s also about preventing them. Most dental plans cover 100% of the following preventive services up to two times per year:
- Regular professional teeth cleaning
- Dental examination
- Dental X-rays
These preventive measures play a crucial role in maintaining excellent oral health, preventing diseases, and catching potential issues early.
Don’t Wait on Cavities
While cavities may be inconvenient, it’s vital to treat them promptly. Early cavity treatment prevents long-term damage and helps maintain a beautiful, healthy smile. An effective way to utilize your insurance benefits is to schedule preventive care visits early and catch any issues before they worsen.
We’re Here for You!
Your dentists in McLean genuinely care about your oral health and want to ensure you make the most of your dental benefits. If you have any questions about your dental insurance, please don’t hesitate to stop by or give us a call. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and make the most of your dental insurance before the year comes to a close. We look forward to seeing you and helping you achieve and maintain a beautiful, healthy smile. To learn more about us, check out our business page and don’t forget to consult the map before heading our way!
