4 Tips to Maximize Your Dental Insurance

A healthy smile relies on more than brushing and flossing. The American Dental Association recommends a cleaning and checkup every 6 months. However, many people skip seeing a dentist because they are concerned about the cost. If you’re among the 59% of Americans with dental insurance, you can get the care you need for minimal out-of-pocket expense. Here are 4 ways to maximize dental insurance benefits to achieve your best smile, even if money is tight.

1. Schedule a Cleaning and Checkup 

Dentistry focuses on prevention to stop common issues from occurring in the first place, like tooth decay and gum disease. Research has found that every $1 spent on prevention can save up to $50 on restorative and emergency services. Paying your monthly premiums allows you to have a cleaning and checkup twice a year after a copayment. You’ll preserve your natural smile and reduce your future dental expenses.

2. Don’t Delay Dental Care

If your dentist finds anything concerning or you have a toothache, don’t wait to have the problem addressed. A minor issue can turn into a costly emergency if you delay treatment. You don’t have to worry about a large bill because your insurance benefits can pay 50% to 80% of the cost after meeting your annual deductible. You can use your yearly allowance to offset the amount you’ll pay for common restorative services, like root canals, tooth extractions, or dentures.

3. Choose the Right Dentist

Your dental insurance will recommend visiting an in-network dentist to enjoy more coverage at the time of services. They have pre-negotiated rates with specific dental practices to keep dentistry affordable. You can still use your coverage at an out-of-network location. You will have to pay the difference between the dentist’s fees and your insurance’s allowable amount. 

4. Don’t Wait Until Your Benefits Expire 

Your dental benefits don’t last forever. They reset at the end of the year. You won’t be reimbursed for your premiums or deductible if you don’t meet your annual limits. Anything you don’t use won’t carry over into 2023. On average, less than 3% of Americans meet or exceed their yearly limits, which means you could waste hundreds to thousands of dollars every year. Don’t wait until it’s too late to use your coverage to avoid throwing money down the drain.

Achieve the Healthy Smile You Deserve

Dental insurance can be confusing, but you won’t have to navigate your policy alone. Your dental team will work on your behalf with your insurance, so you have one less thing to worry about. They’ll help you achieve optimal oral health without spending your life’s savings. 

About Javier Ortiz

Dr. Ortiz achieved his dental degree at the University of Puerto Rico and he regularly pursues advanced education in many specialties, like general dentistry and endodontics. He offers state-of-the-art solutions to help his patients reach optimal oral health. Dr. Ortiz proudly accepts many dental insurance plans to keep his services affordable. Contact our office today to request your consultation.