6 Year-End Tips for Using Your Dental Insurance

As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to evaluate how you’ve utilized your dental insurance benefits. Many insurance plans reset on January 1st, and any unused benefits often do not roll over into the following year.

To maximize the value of your plan and maintain your oral health, follow these essential tips.

1. Review Your Plan Benefits

Start by understanding your dental insurance coverage. Most plans have an annual maximum — the total amount your insurance will pay for dental treatments within the year. If you haven’t reached this limit, now is the time to schedule treatments or procedures you’ve been postponing.

Check for Preventive Care Coverage: Many plans fully cover preventive services like cleanings and exams. If you missed your bi-annual appointment, schedule it now.

Understand What’s Covered: Some plans offer partial coverage for procedures like fillings, crowns, or root canals. Knowing this can help you prioritize treatments.

2. Schedule Pending Treatments

Delaying dental care can lead to more serious (and expensive) issues down the line. If you need treatments like fillings, crowns, or periodontal care, take advantage of your remaining benefits to address these issues before the year ends.

Some extensive treatments require multiple appointments. Starting now may help you use this year’s benefits while planning follow-ups under next year’s coverage.

3. Utilize Your Flexible Spending Account (FSA)

If your insurance is paired with an FSA, remember that these funds also often have a “use it or lose it” policy. FSAs can cover out-of-pocket expenses like co-pays or treatments not fully covered by insurance.

Check FSA Balances: Use the remaining balance for treatments like whitening, sealants, or orthodontics.

Plan Ahead: Ensure you’re booking appointments in time to use these funds before the deadline.

4. Plan for Major Treatments

December can be a strategic month to begin if you’re considering significant dental work, such as implants, bridges, or veneers. You may split costs across two benefit years, using this year’s remaining benefits and next year’s freshly renewed coverage.

5. Book Early

Dental offices get busier toward the end of the year as patients rush to use their benefits. Secure your spot by booking appointments well in advance.

Act Now: Call your Bravo! Dental office to check availability and prioritize your needs.

Set Reminders: Create reminders for any required follow-ups in January.

6. Plan for Next Year

Take the opportunity to evaluate your dental needs and insurance plan for next year. Are you maximizing benefits or paying for coverage you don’t fully use? Discuss with your dentist or insurance provider to adjust as needed.

Don’t Let Benefits Go to Waste

Your dental insurance is a valuable resource for maintaining your oral health, but it only works if you use it. Reviewing your plan, scheduling treatments, and acting promptly ensures your smile is cared for without leaving benefits on the table. Book an appointment at Bravo! Dental and make the most of this year’s coverage before it’s too late.