What You Need to Know to Maximize Your Dental Benefits

Have you scheduled your second dental checkup this year? Are you putting off that recommended root canal until 2021? Are you worried about visiting the dentist because of the continued threat of COVID-19? While you might think 2020 is a wash when it comes to your oral health, it’s time you realize that the dental insurance policy you’ve been paying for this entire time isn’t changing because of a pandemic. In fact, with only a few months left before the new year, it is in your best interest to find ways to maximize your policy before it’s too late. A local dentist shares what you can do to avoid losing your hard-earned money and why it’s safe to get back into the dentist’s chair.

Starting Anew on January 1

If you were unaware until now, your dental insurance benefits will expire at midnight on December 31, 2020. What does this mean? It means your deductible is reset to $0 and any remaining balance left behind on your annual maximum is returned to the insurance company. As a result, you will lose thousands of dollars that could have been used to improve your oral health throughout the year.

Most insurance policies are good for one calendar year. Within that timeframe, you can work toward meeting your deductible and using your annual maximum, which is the allotted amount provided to you by your insurer for any necessary dental treatments. When you forgo visiting the dentist, you continue to pay for coverage that is not doing you any good.

Because less than 3% of all policyholders actually meet their annual maximum, insurance companies receive billions of dollars in unused benefits each year. If you want to keep them from getting even more of your money, it’s time to take charge of your plan and get in to see your dentist.

Taking Back Control of Your Oral Health

When it comes to getting the most out of your dental insurance policy, there are several things you can do:

1. Trust your dentist. Although COVID-19 may have you feeling wary about visiting the dentist, trust they are implementing the latest health and safety protocols to better protect you during your appointment.
2. Schedule your second preventive checkup. Right now, many insurance companies are waiving their “six months and one day” policy that states you must wait this length of time between your twice-yearly appointments. This means you can take better care of your oral health right now even if your first visit to the dentist was last month.
3. Don’t put off advanced treatments. Whether it is a root canal, tooth extraction, or a dental bridge you need, it’s best to schedule your procedure before the end of the year. This will ensure you use your annual maximum and avoid sending more money back into the hands of your insurance company.
4. See an in-network dentist. By choosing to see someone in-network with your insurance company, you can save additional money throughout the year while continuing to receive the same high-quality service.

The last few months of 2020 are quickly approaching. Don’t let it slip by without talking to your dental team about ways to maximize your insurance policy and start the new year with a healthier smile.

About the Practice
At McComb Family Dental, our team of dentists knows you want high-quality dentistry that is convenient and affordable. This is why you can expect first-rate customer service from our knowledgeable staff. Not only will we help you navigate your insurance policy, but we’ll also help you find ways to maximize your benefits before they expire at the end of the year. If you’re looking to take better care of your oral health and save money in the process, contact us at (419) 293-2335.