Use It or Lose It With Your Dental Insurance Benefits

You might have heard of the term use it or lose it? But how does that apply to your dental insurance? We are going to spend this time not only defining that terminology for you, but also explaining why you should be scheduling your next appointment with your dentist right now, before the end of 2017.

Dental Insurance 101

First you need to understand the basics of dental insurance. While every plan is unique, most run on a calendar year plan, which means that they start in January and end in December. Most plans have maximum amount that they will pay each year, and some have a deductible to be paid before restorative treatment can be done.

Your maximum to be paid each year will end in December, which means if you have unused dollars for the year, you will lose them since they don’t roll over into the next year. Hence the term, use it or lose it, and the reason to schedule any outstanding treatment that you need now before the year ends.

Insurance Coverage

Most dental plans cover your preventive care for the year. This means that there is little to no out of pocket expense for you. With your cleaning and checkup appointments covered, it is in your best interest to visit your dentist every six months so you can be proactive about your oral health and any treatment you might need.

Restorative care such as dental fillings and crowns are typically covered at a percentage, and subject to your deductible, which means that you will be financially responsible for a portion of your treatment.

The Importance of Preventive Care

Your preventive visits are truly your first line of defense against dental issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. The goals is with regular screenings, you’ll be able to prevent many of these concerns from happening in the first place.

If you should find yourself facing one of these concerns, treating it early on is much more successful and less costly and invasive for you.

Questions About Dental Insurance?

Dental insurance can be tricky to understand, especially since every plan varies greatly. If you have questions about your coverage, or what your out-of-pocket expense may be, give your dentist’s treatment coordinator a call to learn more.

About the Author

Dr. Mark Gray and Dr. Marlayne Newman complete your highly skilled dental team at Mark Gray Cosmetic and Family Dentistry. Patients will enjoy working with this upbeat and caring team. They will also find a wide array of comprehensive dental services designed to meet all of their needs under our roof.

Would you like to learn more about our practice? We can be reached through our website or by calling 281-493-9395.