Interested in learning how you can maximize your dental insurance benefits in Midlothian? You’re not alone. Many patients who want to take better care of their smiles understand the importance and worthwhile investment that a private insurance plan can provide. But the attempt to navigate these policies can be daunting and even overwhelming. Fortunately, there are three distinct ways you can get the most out of your plan without having to go back to school to learn the ins and outs of the insurance industry.
Take Advantage of Preventive Care
Most dental insurance companies design their plans in such a way that allow for two dental checkup and cleanings each year. These visits as well as dental X-rays and even fluoride treatments typically fall under the category of preventive care. As a result, patients can expect their insurance provider to pay between 80-100% of the cost for these services. While not every plan is the same, this tends to be the standard most companies maintain when it comes to preventive oral care.
By keeping your regular six-month exams, you not only improve the state of your oral health right now but also reduce your risk for cavities, gum disease, and other problems that require restorative treatment.
See an In-Network Dentist
If you have a PPO plan, that means you have the ability to choose any dentist you like. But if you want to save the most money, it’s advised that you see a trusted dentist who is in-network with your insurance company. Instead of paying out of pocket for treatment, you will pay the least because of the fees and services that are pre-negotiated between the dentist and the insurer. While you do have the option to see someone who is out-of-network, you should expect to pay the difference between the dentist’s fees and the insurance company’s fees. This, in turn, will only result in higher costs.
Use Your Benefits Before They Expire
Most dental insurance plans provide available benefits that are good for use for one calendar year. From January 1 to December 31, you can use your plan however you would like. Once midnight on December 31 arrives, however, you will discover that your benefits do not roll over but instead, they reset. This means you are required to meet your deductible once again, and your annual maximum is replenished. This also means that any unused funds from the previous year are returned to the insurance company, which can result in thousands of lost dollars.
This is why your dentist will typically encourage and recommend that you use your benefits before they expire at the end of the year. Need a root canal? Get it done before December 31, so you won’t be left to pay your deductible in the new year before your insurer agrees to start paying.
About the Practice
At Long Family Dental, our team of dental experts has been caring for the residents of Midlothian for more than 40 years. A family-owned business, Dr. Robert Long and Dr. Chris Long are carrying on the work of their father, Dr. Henry Long, who originally established the practice. By offering accessible and affordable services to all patients, we can help individuals get the most out of their dental insurance policies each time they visit. If you’re interested in learning how we can help you maximize your benefits, visit our website.