Have you ever looked at your dental insurance plan and realized you were going to lose the benefits you had paid for all year? Many people lose their dental coverage this time of year because they do not know how the process works. In reality, most dental plans run on a “use it or lose it” policy, whereby at the end of the year, if you have unused benefits, you lose them.

But don’t worry: understanding how unused dental benefits work can help you maximize your plan. Let’s dive into key points related to how unused dental benefits work and how not to lose them.

Understand the “Use It or Lose It” Rule

Perhaps the most common element of dental insurance is the “use it or lose it” rule. Typically, your dental plan offers a fixed amount of coverage at the beginning of the year, which can be used for all sorts of preventive measures such as cleanings, exams, and more. However, many dental insurance plans reset at the end of the year, and coverage does not carry over.

For instance, if your plan pays for two cleanings a year and you use only one, the remaining benefit is gone once the year is over. That’s why it is very important to schedule any dental visits before your benefits reset.

Why You Shouldn’t Let Benefits Go Unused

Most people think it is not a big deal to skip one cleaning or routine checkup. However, not using your benefits can have long-term consequences. If you’re not using your dental coverage, you’re throwing away money. Plus, regular visits to your dentist help catch issues early before they become expensive and complicated procedures.

Prevention is always better than treatment. For example, failing to have a routine cleaning done could result in periodontal disease; this may further involve deep cleanings or even fillings as later treatments. Using your benefits now helps protect your oral health while preventing future costs.

The Impact of Dental Insurance on Your Health

Dental insurance pays for more than just preventative care: Most plans cover fillings, crowns, and root canals. But the real value is in preventing serious issues down the road.

By using your benefits for routine care, you maintain good oral health and catch those potential problems, such as cavities and gum disease, early on. This can save you hundreds in unexpected dental costs.

Whether you need a cleaning, X-rays, or a filling, getting those treatments covered under your dental insurance before the end of the year is a smart move.

Understanding Your Dental Coverage Timeline: Why Is It Important?

Each dental insurance plan has its specific timeline for coverage and benefits. For example, some plans reset annually on a calendar year, while others might operate on a fiscal year. You will need to know your dental insurance timeline to avoid missing out on covered services.

Before you schedule your appointment, review your plan to see what’s remaining for the year. If you’ve already reached your deductible, now is a good time to get treatments that might be more complex, such as crowns and root canals.

Plan Ahead: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

As the year nears its end, dental offices get rather busy, and many people scramble to use their unused benefits. Book your appointment early so that you don’t miss out on a slot.

If you wait until December, it will be much more challenging to get an appointment, and you might not be able to use your benefits before they completely reset. Visit Pacific Northwest Dentist now to ensure you get the most out of your dental plan.