Picture this: you’re buying school supplies for your kids. You’ve just picked out enough colorful markers, notebooks, and pencils to last them through the whole school year. Then, after paying, you toss your bags into the garbage can and leave. You might not think you’d ever throw money away like that, but that’s exactly what you’re doing when you don’t take advantage of the dental insurance benefits that you’ve already paid for. Here are three reasons why you should use those benefits by scheduling an appointment with your dentist before 2020 is over.
1. You’ve Already Paid for Certain Services
By paying your premiums every month, you’re entitled to many services at a discount or even with zero out-of-pocket costs. In fact, the majority of dental insurance plans completely cover the cost of two checkups and cleanings per year. If you don’t see your dentist every six months for these preventive visits, you’re paying money in exchange for a service you’re not even using. Make sure to attend these appointments so that you’re not wasting money.
2. Your Benefits Reset on January 1st
Your dental insurance plan has a set of amount of money that they will pay toward your dental care every year. This amount, known as your annual maximum, is typically between $1,000 and $1,250. In most cases, this is more than enough for two checkups and cleanings.
However, any benefits that you have not used in a certain calendar year do not roll over into the next year. This means that even if you only had one checkup in 2020, you’ll still only be covered for two in 2021. An easy way to use this money is to book a second checkup with your dentist before this year ends.
3. An Ounce of Prevention Is Worth a Pound of Cure
Treating oral health problems, such as cavities and gum disease, is much more difficult than preventing these issues in the first place. Not to mention, it can significantly more expensive. For this reason, dental insurance primarily covers preventive care. Fortunately, your dentist can recognize early signs of these problems at your routine checkup and treat them before they become difficult. This can save you a lot of money, as well as time spent in the dental chair.
Instead of throwing away the benefits you’ve already paid for, why not get the most bang for your buck by visiting your dentist before 2021? Schedule your appointment and get started on improving your smile today!
About the Author
Dr. Dennis E. Stansbury is a dentist in Tyler, TX who has worked in the dental field for an impressive 44 years and counting. Since earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Baylor College of Dentistry, he has become a member of multiple professional dental organizations. He has even earned a Fellowship with the American College of Dentists. His team will happily process and file claims for most PPO dental insurance providers. To schedule your next checkup before the end of 2020, contact Stansbury Dental at (903) 561-1122.