Smart Smiles: A Guide to Optimizing Your Dental Insurance Benefits

Some people are afraid to go to the dentist because of the instruments, others are afraid because of money. When it comes time to pay, dental insurance can make the process complicated. This fear has cost Americans over 100 billion dollars in unused insurance per year. Dental insurance is vital to your oral health, and you should make the most of it.

If you want to learn five practical tips to help you optimize your coverage, save money, and maintain a healthy smile, continue reading.

1. Learn What Your Coverage Offers

Start by thoroughly understanding your dental insurance plan. Know the details of your coverage, including deductibles, annual maximums, and any waiting periods. Familiarize yourself with the specifics so that you can make informed decisions about your oral health. Here’s a quick guide to some of these terms:

• Deductible – the amount of money you must pay out of pocket before insurance covers the rest.
• Annual Maximum – This is the total amount of money your insurance covers for the year.
• Waiting Periods – Some insurance plans require you to wait to use the benefits. Many won’t require you to wait for preventive care, but it depends on the plan.

2. Schedule Checkups When You Have Coverage

Prevention is key to both oral health and cost savings. Many dental insurance plans cover routine checkups and cleanings by 80 – 100%. By scheduling regular visits to your dentist, you can take advantage of these basic covered services.

This will help you maintain your oral health, preventing conditions from worsening and requiring more expensive treatment.

3. Choose In-Network Dentists

Not all dentists will take your insurance. If you have a specific dentist in mind, be sure to check with them to see which insurance plans they take so you won’t be caught off-guard. This small bit of research can go a long way in helping you save money. 

4. Ensure the Plan You Choose Covers the Treatments You Need

Not all plans cover everything equally. While most insurance will cover preventive care and many basic restorative treatments like fillings, you may have other needs. If you need a root canal, for example, most insurance plans will only cover half of the cost while others may not cover it at all. This is why it’s important to check your coverage before you commit to paying.

5. Take Care with Your Timing

Dental insurance benefits often operate on an annual basis. If your plan has a calendar year limit, be mindful of the timing of your treatments. Consider scheduling necessary procedures or treatments before the end of the year to maximize your benefits and avoid losing any unused coverage.

Strive to understand your coverage from top to bottom and make sure there aren’t any changes. Schedule regular checkups, utilize preventive services, and time treatments so you can maximize your insurance benefits. Using these tips will help you enjoy a healthy smile without breaking the bank. When it comes to dental insurance, the mantra is simple: Use it or lose it!

About the Practice

At Ellicott City Smiles Dental Group, you’ll find a whole team of expert dental professionals ready to help you with your dental care needs. Their state-of-the-art facility houses the latest dental technology to make your treatment fast and convenient. To schedule an appointment, call (410) 465-3224 or visit the website to learn more. They are in-network for Delta Dental, Cigna, and Blue Cross Blue Shield. If you have questions about your insurance, just ask their friendly staff.