The end of the year often brings about a flurry of activities, like holidays, wrapping up work projects, and planning for the coming year. Amid all the hustle and bustle, there’s one thing that’s easy to overlook — your dental benefits. Many dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year basis, and as the year comes to a close, it’s essential to ensure you’re maximizing your benefits. Let’s delve into why it’s crucial to use your dental benefits and the importance of prioritizing your oral health:
Understanding How Dental Benefits Work
Dental insurance benefits are designed to provide you with assistance in covering the costs of your oral care. Most plans have:
- Annual Maximums: This is the most an insurance plan will pay for your dental work in a year. Anything beyond this amount will be out-of-pocket for you.
- Deductibles: This is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance begins to cover a portion of your expenses.
- Coverage Levels: Dental plans often have varying levels of coverage for different services, such as preventive, basic, and major services.
The “Use-it-or-Lose-it” Nature of Dental Benefits
Unlike some other types of insurance or benefits, most dental plans come with a distinct characteristic: If you don’t use the benefits, you lose them. This essentially means:
- Expiring Benefits: Unused annual maximums don’t typically roll over to the next year. If you don’t use them by the end of the calendar year, you forfeit those benefits.
- Wasted Premiums: You’re already paying for your dental insurance. Not using the benefits is like leaving money on the table.
Oral Health: The Gateway to Overall Health
When it comes to using your dental benefits, there’s more to it than just the financial angle. Making regular trips to the dentist is an important part of maintaining your oral health. Meanwhile, it’s important to remember oral health plays a crucial role in your overall health.
Chronic oral issues can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes complications, and respiratory issues. Regular check-ups can catch potential issues early, saving you from discomfort and expensive treatments in the long run.
If you don’t have dental insurance, join the Capital Dental Group Membership Club. The Membership Club covers annual exams and cleanings, X-rays, provides a 20% discount off treatment, and more for as little as $27 a month.
As we approach the year’s end, take a moment to consider your oral health and the dental benefits you may be leaving unused. By maximizing your benefits, you’re not just saving money; you’re investing in your overall well-being. At Capital Dental Group, our dedicated team is ready to assist you in all your dental needs, ensuring you get the most out of your dental benefits seven days a week. Give us a call at 661-861-8000 to schedule an appointment today!