The last few weeks of the year are a festive time as you gather with loved ones for warm meals, enjoy colorful decorations, and shop for the perfect gifts. Your oral health is probably the last thing on your mind; however, now is the time to visit your dentist. As the end of the year quickly approaches, your dental insurance is about to expire. Although your schedule may be busy, here’s why you need to visit your dentist before it’s too late.
Invest in a Healthy Smile
If you think your toothbrush and floss are enough to keep your teeth and gums healthy, you might be shocked to learn it’s only half the care your smile needs. The American Dental Association recommends everyone visit their dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup, even if you don’t have any current oral health concerns. Unfortunately, one-third of adults don’t follow this advice.
If you’re among those who haven’t been to the dentist recently, you may think you’re saving money, but you’re actually putting your smile at risk. Routine cleanings and checkups keep your teeth and gums healthy to lower your overall dental expenses. In fact, every $1 spent on prevention can save you $8 to $50 on restorative or emergency services.
If you’re worried about a large bill, you have nothing to fear because you have dental insurance. You can enjoy the preventive services you need for little to no cost.
Get Affordable Dental Care
Every month, you pay your premium for your dental policy, which gives you access to comprehensive coverage for your specific needs. You’re also given a yearly allowance to use toward restorative services after paying your annual deductible. Depending on your specific policy, your benefits can include:
- 100% preventive services, like cleanings and checkups.
- 80% minor restorative services, such as fillings.
- 50% major restorative services, like root canals or dentures.
Unfortunately, your dental benefits don’t last forever. Your policy expires at the end of the year. If you don’t use all your coverage, you aren’t reimbursed for any unused portion. With less than 3% of Americans meeting or exceeding their annual benefits, you probably still have coverage remaining.
Maximize Your Dental Benefits
Now is the time to schedule an appointment with your dentist to avoid losing what you’ve paid for. It’s often recommended you choose a dentist who is in your network because they have pre-negotiated rates with your insurance carrier, but you can also visit an out-of-network location. No matter who you choose, they will work on your behalf with your insurance company to maximize your dental benefits.
Although the next few months will be busy, take the time to visit your dentist. Start the new year with a healthy smile while staying within your budget.
About Capron Park Dental
Capron Park Dental features a top-rated team to provide the personalized care your smile needs. We work with many leading insurance carriers to keep our services affordable. We’ll handle the forms and paperwork, so you have one less thing to worry about. If you need an appointment before the end of the year, contact our office today.