Why You SHould Use Your Dental Insurance Before the End of the Year

If you’re paying for dental insurance, you may not realize that you can save hundreds of dollars simply by going to the dentist before the end of the year. Most plans have features that expire or reset based on the calendar year, which means that when January 1st rolls around you basically surrender those benefits and start over again. The end of the year can be a busy time, but you’ll have a healthier set of teeth and a happier bank account if you schedule a trip to the dentist before the end of the year.

Yearly Maximums Don’t Roll Over

Most dental insurance plans include a maximum dollar amount they will pay for dental procedures in any given year. When a new year’s coverage begins, that maximum resets. If you can make a couple of visits to the dentist within a calendar year you will have a better chance of using as much of the maximum as possible.

The Deductible Resets Each Year

Just like the maximums tend to reset, your deductible resets each year as well. That means that the beginning of January marks the time you are responsible for paying your agreed deductible before the insurance begins to cover dental procedures. The sooner you pay through that deductible, the more insurance coverage you’ll receive for those monthly premiums.

Potential Fee Increases

As with any other annual renewal, your dental insurance fees, premiums, and deductibles are all subject to change at the beginning of a new coverage year. It makes good financial sense to use the coverage you have now before you have to pay more for the same coverage next year. You have no real way of knowing which costs might rise after January, so taking advantage of your current rates could save you some money in the long run.

Keep Problems from Worsening

The best reason to visit the dentist before the end of the year is to find out if you have any new problems with your teeth so you can get them taken care of before January. Every year you should schedule regular preventive checkups. Most insurance offers reasonable coverage for preventative appointments, so there is no reason to avoid going to the dentist for a cleaning every couple of months. While you are at that appointment, ask your dentist if there are any problems that might need to be addressed before the end of the year. Knowing what to expect of your dental care needs early enough in the year gives you a chance to make the appropriate appointments and take full advantage of this year’s insurance deductibles, fees, and maximums.

If your benefits are soon to expire, come visit us at Lewis Estates Dental Centre for your year-end cleaning. Fill out our online form or call us at (780) 414-5882 to schedule an appointment. We would love to see you.