How to Maximize Your Oral Health with ‘Use It or Lose It’ In Dental Insurance?

As the end of the year approaches, it’s time to start thinking about your dental insurance. If your policy works on a “use it or lose it” basis, you could be missing out on valuable dental care if you don’t take action before December 31st. We want to ensure that you make the most of your dental benefits to keep your smile bright and healthy.

But what exactly does “use it or lose it” mean, and how can you make sure you’re getting the most from your plan? Let’s break it down.

What Is ‘Use It or Lose It’ Dental Insurance?

Dental insurance policies typically include an annual maximum that covers a variety of treatments, including cleanings, exams, fillings, and even more involved operations like crowns or root canals. The drawback? Your benefits expire at the end of the calendar year and cannot be carried over to the following one. That’s the reason it’s called “use it or lose it.”

Don’t wait until the last minute when appointments fill up quickly—plan ahead to make sure you get the care you need.

Why Should You Take Action Right Away to Avail the Benefits?

Here’s why it’s important to schedule your dental care before the end of the year:

1. Prevent Wasted Benefits: If you haven’t used your full coverage for the year, you risk losing those benefits. Routine checkups, cleanings, and other preventative care are typically covered by insurance, so why not make the most of it?
2. Avoid the Year-End Rush: As the year closes, many patients realize they still have benefits to use, making dental offices busier than usual. Booking your appointment early ensures you won’t miss out due to scheduling conflicts.
3. Prevent Future Dental Issues: Delaying treatments can turn small dental problems into bigger, more expensive ones. Addressing minor issues like cavities now will save you from costly and invasive procedures later on.
4. Plan for Larger Treatments: If you need more extensive work like crowns, implants, or bridges, starting the process before the year ends allows you to use your current benefits and potentially tap into next year’s as well.

How to Make the Most of Your ‘Use It or Lose It’ Insurance?

Navigating your insurance can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how you can make the most of your plan and ensure you’re getting the best care:

• Book Your Regular Checkups: Preventative care, such as cleanings and exams, is often fully covered by insurance. If you haven’t had your second cleaning for the year, now is the time to schedule it. Regular checkups help catch potential issues early and keep your teeth in top condition.
• Use Your Benefits for Minor Treatments: Have a small cavity or need a filling? Use your benefits now to take care of these minor treatments before they turn into bigger problems that could cost more out of pocket.
• Consider Preventative Treatments: Services like fluoride treatments and sealants are usually covered by insurance and can help protect your teeth from decay, especially in children. Take advantage of these services before the year ends.
• Plan for Major Dental Work: Need a more complex procedure like a root canal or dental crown? Start the treatment now so you can split the cost across two benefit years. This allows you to maximize your insurance for both this year and next.

The Risks of Dental Care Delay

Putting off dental care can have serious consequences for your oral health and your wallet. Here’s what can happen if you wait too long to use your dental benefits:

• Cavities Get Worse: A tiny cavity has the potential to enlarge rapidly, necessitating more costly and intrusive procedures like crowns or root canal therapy.
• The Gum Disease Advances: Gum disease can result from plaque and tartar accumulation if cleanings aren’t done on a regular basis. If left untreated, this can develop into periodontitis and lead to tooth loss.
• Future Payments Will Be Higher: If you treat tooth problems early on, you can avoid later expensive operations. Reducing your dental expenses today will save you money down the road.

Maximize Your Dental Insurance Benefits Now!

At Galleria Dental of Springfield, we’re here to help you make the most of your dental insurance benefits before the year ends. Whether it’s a routine cleaning or a more extensive procedure, our team will work with you to ensure you’re getting the care you need while fully utilizing your coverage.

Don’t let your benefits go to waste! Contact us today to schedule your appointment and make sure you’re maximizing your dental insurance before the year is over.