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Use It or Lose It? How to Maximize Your Insurance Benefits

September 1, 2021

Filed under: Uncategorized — drnoorda @ 1:06 pm
Blue piggy bank on top of model dentures

If you are like most people, you don’t enjoy losing money. However, you may be leaving hundreds or even thousands of dollars on the table each year if you don’t take advantage of your dental insurance benefits. On December 31st, any leftover benefits go back to the insurance company and your coverage resets. Dental insurance is a monthly investment, so it makes sense that you want to take advantage of your coverage while you can. Here are five helpful tips to maximize your dental insurance benefits and save money.

#1: Choose an In-Network Dentist

Are you in between dentists at the moment or searching for a new one? If so, make sure your next dentist is in-network with your insurance plan. An in-network dentist has agreed to provide dental services at certain negotiated rates. If you choose a dentist who is out-of-network, they may charge a higher fee that your dental insurance won’t fully cover.

#2: Schedule a 2nd Checkup & Cleaning

Many people only see their dentist in Henderson once a year for a routine checkup. However, the American Dental Association recommends at least two checkups and cleanings annually to maintain a healthy smile and prevent minor problems from going untreated. It turns out, skipping a second checkup is not only bad for your oral health, but your wallet as well! Most dental insurance plans cover basic preventive services at 100%. So, if you’ve only seen your dentist once this year, now’s the perfect time to schedule another checkup. It likely won’t cost you a penny!

#3: Don’t Waste Your Deductible

A deductible is the amount of money you must pay out-of-pocket for oral care before your dental insurance activates. If you have already met your deductible this year, then you shouldn’t wait to schedule dental treatment. Most deductibles reset at the beginning of each year. If you wait until 2022 to start treatment, you will likely have to pay your deductible again before your renewed insurance benefits will kick in.  

#4: Split Treatment Costs Over Two Years

Here’s a major insider tip: by starting extensive dental treatment in the fall, you may be able to split the cost over two years! If you haven’t reached your annual maximum, you will first use up any remaining benefits from this year. Then, once 2022 arrives, you will be able to take advantage of your renewed benefits after you meet your deductible. 

#5: Act Before Your Plan Changes

If you are happy with your current dental insurance benefits, you should take advantage of them before it’s too late. Many insurance plans change on a year-to-year basis. Your deductible, co-pay and annual maximum could all potentially be higher next year.

Saving money is always a reason to smile! Make the most of your monthly investment in dental insurance by following the five tips above.

About the Author

Dr. Brett Noorda has over 20 years of experience providing quality oral care to the Henderson community. He is an in-network dentist with most major PPO insurance plans, including Cigna, Delta Dental, Aetna, United Healthcare, and many more. To learn more about how to maximize your insurance benefits, visit Dr. Noorda’s website or call 702-456-7403.

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