The Countdown is On: Maximize Your Dental Insurance Before December 31st

The holidays at the end of the year are always a time of joy, but there’s also an important deadline that has to be met for dental insurance benefits. Many plans operate a “use-it-or-lose-it” policy where unclaimed benefits expire on December 31st.

Without making appointments now, you risk losing hundreds of dollars in coverage. With the clock ticking, there’s no better time than now to schedule dental appointments and make the most of your benefits before they’re gone.

Finding Out About Your Dental Insurance Benefits

Dental insurance is complex, but it makes sense to know the key words. Annual maximums are standard in most plans, which restrict how much your business will reimburse each year. Co-pays are what you pay directly for treatments, and coverage limits specify the treatments that are covered.

Phrases like “deductibles” are what you pay directly prior to insurance paying for it, and “co-insurance” is what you’ll pay after meeting your deductible. Check with which providers are in-network because out-of-network care may cost more. Understanding these terms ensures that you make the most of your plan on a “use-it-or-lose-it” basis.

Ways to Check Your Current Benefits

Start by reviewing your benefits either by contacting your provider or viewing their online portal. Your insurer’s website can also offer information about your remaining balance and treatments covered. In case you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to call customer service. Have them verify any unused benefits, especially for preventive care.

Check coverage of large procedures like fillings, crowns, and orthodontia, which may take extra visits. Monitor your benefits regularly before December 31st in case you lose remaining benefits under the “use-it-or-lose-it” provision.

Routine Services You Can Consider Obtaining Before Year-End

Preventive care is one of the easiest ways to use your benefits before they lapse. Schedule your yearly checkup, cleaning, and X-rays. Don’t wait until next year to have major treatments like fillings, crowns, or orthodontic changes. Cosmetic treatments, like veneers or whitening, can also be covered under your plan.

These are a vital part of your oral health and will help prevent more costly procedures later on. Use your benefits now before you forfeit them under the “use-it-or-lose-it” clause.

Getting the Most Out of Your Benefits

To gain maximum benefit from your dental insurance by the 31st of December, schedule your appointments in advance. Dental offices get filled up quickly towards the end of the year, and you don’t want to miss out. If you need major treatments like root canals or implants, start them now.

Certain treatments take several visits, so start them before the end of the year. Don’t forget to make the most of preventive visits to find out any potential problems before they turn into bigger ones. Under the “use-it-or-lose-it” policy, the sooner you do something, the better you can save money and time.

What If You Don’t Use Your Benefits

If you don’t utilize your dental insurance benefits by December 31st, it can end up costing you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. Most people disregard the “use-it-or-lose-it” provision and let their benefits lapse, and by doing so, neglect treatments.

In fact, studies estimate that over 40% of people do not utilize all of their dental benefits annually. Don’t be one of them. Make your appointments now and get the most out of your plan before it comes due again next year.

You have limited time to make use of your dental benefits under the “use-it-or-lose-it” rule. Do not wait! Make an appointment today, plan treatment, and do not lose precious coverage. Do not let your benefits expire without taking advantage of them. Book your dental appointment today and make use of your coverage before December 31st. Time is of the essence!