The end of the year is just around the corner, which means you’re probably getting used to the colder weather and the shorter days. However, it’s not only a time for festive decorations and family reunions. Many people don’t realize insurance benefits they once had, particularly dental benefits, will not be usable in the new year. That’s why now is a more important time than ever to get scheduled and make the most out of your benefits.
To learn how to get started, keep reading this post from a dentist in Corpus Christi!
How Much Money Goes to Waste on Unused Benefits?
According to a report from the American Dental Association, the average individual with dental insurance only spent $323 worth of benefits in a given year. This is despite the fact that annual maximums for dental insurance average about $1,250. That’s over $900 in benefits going to waste. Multiply that amount by about 167 million people who have dental insurance and you have over $150 billion of wasted dental benefits, all going back to the dental insurance companies.
A report from the National Association of Dental Plans came to similar conclusions. Based on their report, only 2.8 percent of average PPO plan participants met or exceeded their annual maximum. With so much money at stake, it’s crucial to utilize benefits not just for your oral and overall health, but for economic reasons as well.
How You Can Get Started Maximizing
The best place to start is with your employer (if that’s where you get your insurance from) or your insurance company directly. They are the best sources to speak with regarding certain insurance information, including your annual maximum, co-pays, co-insurance and remaining benefits in your account. Once you know exactly what treatment you need, you can start looking at the benefits you have left and begin maximizing.
For example, think back to the last time you had a routine exam or cleaning. If you’ve only had one this year (or even none this year) that is definitely the best place to start when maximizing benefits.
Why Preventive Treatments are Ideal for Maximizing Benefits
Routine exams and cleanings are often well-covered by dental insurance, typically anywhere from 80 to 100 percent. This is because insurance companies want individuals to seek treatments that have been proven to maintain oral health in the long-term. It’s the same reason why restorative and emergency treatments are often not covered at the same rates.
Of course, if you have dental fillings or crowns to place, now is still the best time to start your treatment plan (or finish it if you started the plan earlier in the year.) Dental practices can stagger your treatment starting this month and going into the next year.
Make the most of your insurance benefits by scheduling an appointment with an emergency dentist in Corpus Christi today!
About the Author
Dr. Sarah Pitarra earned her DDS degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry. Her office is more than happy to file paperwork for your insurance plan and make sure you receive the maximum benefits available. To learn more about her practice or start maximizing your dental insurance, you can contact her through her website.