Dental insurance can be a boon, especially when it’s time to pay for regular visits and unexpected procedures. But there’s a catch that insurers aren’t aware of until it’s too late: “use it or lose it.” Your dental benefits expire if you don’t take advantage of them before the year runs out. 

It might sound frustrating, but don’t worry – you can still make the most of your dental benefits. Let’s review the use it or lose it concept and how you can make sure you’re getting the most from your dental insurance.

What is ‘Use It or Lose It’?

The “use it or lose it” rule dictates the benefits that your dental plan offers. In other words, if you don’t use your dental coverage within the calendar year, you lose the unused benefits. The benefits typically extend to preventive services like cleanings, exams, and X-rays – services that maintain your healthy smile and lower your dental costs down the road.

But if you don’t schedule those cleanings or other procedures covered, your benefits don’t roll over. They reset when the year does, which can leave you feeling like you missed an opportunity to have your teeth taken care of. Most dental insurance policies also have annual maximums, so the most your insurance will contribute to dental care in a year is capped. 

The Need for Year-End Scheduling

Many people think they can wait until the last minute to schedule dental appointments, but that’s a risk. When the year is winding down, dental offices fill up with people attempting to use their benefits. Last-minute scheduling can lead to longer wait times or a missed appointment altogether.

That’s where flexibility comes in. Flexible financing options are available at most dental offices to help you get the treatments you require. Scheduling early to utilize your dental insurance effectively ensures you don’t miss out on that vital preventive care.

Understanding Your Dental Insurance Timeline

Most dental plans run on the calendar year, and unused benefits expire on December 31. With this in mind, you have a clear target to aim for when scheduling treatments. Book your cleaning, exams, and other covered procedures well in advance, then. Doing this, you avoid the year-end rush and can ensure you’re getting the most from your coverage.

If you require a procedure that will require more than one visit, attempt to have it performed at the end of the year and the beginning of the next year. This will allow you to get the most out of your coverage as well as make extensive treatments affordable. 

How to Maximize Your Dental Coverage

To ensure you’re not leaving any money on the table, here are some tips for using your dental coverage to the fullest:

• Book your routine care early: Cleanings, exams, and X-rays are typically covered 100% by dental insurance. These preventive visits are often overlooked but are key to avoiding more expensive dental procedures down the road.
• Check your benefits: Attend the appointment prepared by looking over your dental insurance plan and knowing your plan’s restrictions, what’s covered, and what isn’t covered. This will enable you to know exactly what to expect.
• Don’t delay major procedures: If you need fillings, crowns, or other dental work, attempt to start the process prior to the close of the year. You can normally split the cost over two years to make the most out of your dental benefits.

You’ve paid for your dental benefits, so don’t let them lapse. The key to getting the most out of your dental insurance is to plan, schedule appointments early, and understand the rules that govern your benefits. If you’re unsure about the specifics of your plan, talk to your dental office. At Addison Dental Group, we’re dedicated to helping you get the most out of your coverage and keep your smile healthy and strong.

Call us today to schedule your next appointment, and don’t let your benefits expire.