Even if you have dental insurance, chances are you don’t have more than a basic idea of how it works. Sure, you’re aware that paying your monthly premiums gives you discounts on certain dental services. But do you know how to maximize your dental insurance benefits to the fullest? If not, then you’re not saving nearly as much money as you could be. Luckily, a dentist in Mount Vernon is here to share four simple tips for making the most of your dental insurance benefits.
1. Visit an In-Network Dentist
As long as your insurance plan lets you select your own dental provider, there’s a good chance that you can save on your care. That’s one major way that dental insurance differs from medical insurance. However, you’ll receive an even larger discount if you visit a dentist who is in-network with your specific plan.
2. Schedule Your Next Dental Checkup & Cleaning
Research shows that every dollar spent on preventive dental care can save you up to $50 in emergency or restorative treatments later on. Oral health problems are significantly easier to prevent than they are to treat. For that reason, the majority of dental insurance plans fully cover the cost of two checkups and cleanings per year. These appointments are a perfect opportunity for your dentist to catch cavities, infections, and other concerns early enough that you can avoid the need for more expensive procedures.
3. Don’t Delay Additional Dental Treatments You Need
Every year, you have to pay a small amount out-of-pocket before your insurance company begins paying for your care. Once you’ve paid this amount, called a deductible, you’ll receive insurance coverage for the rest of the year up to a certain amount, called an annual maximum. This means that you should take care of any needed dental treatments, like fillings or dental crowns, toward the end of the year. By waiting until the next year, you’d have to pay your deductible all over again before you could access discounts.
4. Use It or Lose It
Your annual maximum also resets once a year ends, and any benefits you haven’t used will typically disappear. Very few Americans with dental insurance exceed or even meet their annual maximums, so the majority of insured Americans end up losing money they could have put toward their smiles. Before the year draws to a close, check with your insurance provider to find out how much coverage you have left on your annual maximum. Your dentist’s team would be happy to help with this process!
Dental insurance can be quite confusing, but once you learn a bit more about it, it’s easy to make the most of your benefits. To learn more about making dental care affordable, reach out to your dentist in Mount Vernon – their expert team can make everything easier for you!
About the Practice
At Cross Creek Dental Care, no two patients receive the exact same care. Our dentists take the time to get to know each patient on an individual level and personalize their experience accordingly. We welcome virtually every dental insurance plan, but we’re in-network with Delta Dental. If you’re looking for a Delta Dental dentist in Mount Vernon, OH who can help you save, please contact Cross Creek Dental Care at 740-392-6156.