Between holiday shopping, school events, family get-togethers, and everything else packed into the final months of the year, checking your dental insurance probably isn’t at the top of your festive to-do list. But taking a few minutes to review your coverage now could help you use the benefits available to your family.
Many dental insurance plans have annual maximums and reset at the end of the benefit year. Depending on your plan, unused coverage may not carry forward.
If it’s been a while since your last appointment, now is a good time to check your dental benefits before the year ends! Here’s what families should know about their coverage, upcoming dental needs, and planning ahead.
Start by Checking What You Have Left
Every insurance plan is different, so the first step in making the most of your dental benefits before the year ends is reviewing your own coverage rather than assuming a particular treatment is included.
Look at your remaining annual maximum, deductible, coverage percentages, and when your benefit year resets. It’s also worth checking how frequently your plan covers services such as exams, X-rays, scaling, polishing, and fluoride treatments.
At Brentwood Village Dental, we recommend verifying your available coverage before your appointment. Our administrative team can also help you understand details such as deductibles, coverage limits, and co-pay requirements.
Don’t Put Off Recommended Dental Care
If your dentist has already recommended a filling, crown, bridge, or another treatment, review your plan to see whether you have coverage remaining this year.
Taking care of an existing concern isn’t just about using your benefits. Dental problems don’t always stay the same while you wait. Regular exams can identify cavities and other concerns before they become more complicated or uncomfortable.
Depending on the treatment and your coverage, your dental team may also be able to help you plan care around your benefit year. Insurance should never be the only factor determining when you receive necessary treatment, but understanding your coverage can help you make informed decisions.
Remember Your Routine Checkups and Cleanings
Year-end planning doesn’t have to involve a major dental procedure. If you’re due for a routine exam or cleaning, your remaining benefits may help cover some or all of the cost, depending on your policy.
Preventive appointments allow your dental team to clean away buildup, check your teeth and gums, and spot potential concerns before you’re ringing in the new year with an unexpected toothache.
Book Before the December Rush
If you want to use your dental benefits before the year-end, don’t leave booking until the final few days of December. Year-end can be a popular time for dental appointments as other patients are also reviewing their remaining coverage.
Booking earlier gives you more flexibility and, if your dentist identifies something that requires treatment, more time to understand your options before your benefits reset.
Let Us Help Make Insurance a Little Simpler
Dental insurance can involve a lot of percentages, maximums, deductibles, and fine print. At Brentwood Village Dental, we’d rather you feel informed about what you’re paying for and what your plan may cover. Our welcoming team is here to make the process easier, and we speak a wide range of languages, including Filipino, Hindi, Spanish, French, Korean, Farsi, Arabic, Cantonese, and Mandarin.
We offer direct billing to most major insurance providers, meaning our team can submit your claim directly to your insurer. You’ll remain responsible for any portion your plan doesn’t cover.
Before another year disappears from the calendar, take a moment to review your dental coverage and any care you’ve been putting off. Learn more about pricing and insurance at Brentwood Village Dental and contact our team if you have questions about planning your next visit.
