4 Ways to Maximize Your Dental Insurance

Did you know that over half of adults have private dental insurance in the U.S.? However, less than 3% of Americans meet or exceed their annual limits. Let’s face it, dental insurance can be confusing, but don’t throw money down the drain. You pay your premiums every month for your coverage, so why not use it to invest in optimal oral health? Time is running out to use your dental benefits because they will reset at the end of the year. Don’t worry. Here are 4 ways you can maximize your dental insurance before it expires.

1. Schedule a Cleaning and Checkup

Dental insurance focuses on prevention to stop common oral health issues from occurring in the first place, like cavities and gum disease. Research has found that $1 of preventive dentistry can save up to $50 on emergency and restorative fees. 

You can visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup for a co-payment. Your insurance will cover 100% of the expenses for preventive care, including X-rays, fluoride treatments, and more.

2. Don’t Delay Dental Work

25% of adults delay dental care over cost concerns. Delaying treatment causes minor issues to turn into big problems, like dental emergencies. 1 in 6 Americans experience a dental emergency annually. You can lower your risk and preserve your smile by scheduling necessary dental work. 

Your insurance can pay 50% to 80% of the expenses for common restorative treatments, like fillings, root canals, and dental crowns. After meeting your yearly deductible, you can use your annual allowance to keep your treatment affordable.

3. Choose an In-Network Dentist

Your dental insurance recommends choosing a dentist in their network to enjoy more coverage at the time of services. They have pre-negotiated rates with select dental practices to lower the amount policyholders pay out-of-pocket. 

You can use your coverage at an out-of-network dentist, but you’ll be responsible for the difference between your insurance’s allowable amount and the dentist’s fees.

4. Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Your dental benefits don’t last forever. Your policy will reset at the end of the year, and you’ll lose anything you haven’t used. You won’t be reimbursed for your premiums or deductibles. Nothing will carry over into the upcoming year. You could lose hundreds to thousands of dollars that could have been spent on keeping your mouth healthy.

There’s still time to use your dental benefits. Your dentist will help you maximize your coverage to achieve a healthy, beautiful smile. 

About Dr. Vrajesh Shah

Dr. Shah has over 20 years of experience as a prosthodontist. After earning his dental degree at the New York University College of Dentistry, he completed a 3-year program in prosthodontics. He has regularly continued his education to provide the latest solutions in dentistry, including general dentistry and dental implants. Dr. Shah accepts many dental insurance plans to keep a healthy smile affordable for everyone. Request an appointment through his website or contact his office at (732) 896-9975.