It’s almost the end of hurricane season, which means we’re sliding into fall and hopefully some cooler weather. And before we know it, the holidays will be here! And obviously, this sweet transition into fall makes us all think about one thing: our insurance benefits! …right?
If you use dental insurance, be aware of when your benefit calendar turns over. For most plans, it happens at midnight on December 31st. When the clock strikes one, if you had any available benefits still remaining in your plan for the year, then just like Cinderella’s ball gown, poof. Benefits you have already paid for will disappear if you haven’t used them by the time your plan year ends.
Most dental insurance is actually a benefit plan. You pay money into an account which guarantees you a certain amount of money you can put toward dental work. So rather than a maximum out of pocket amount like medical insurance, this is a maximum benefit available. Most of us only use a few hundred dollars of these available benefits per year. Routine cleanings, x-rays, and exams are the most common procedures most of us bill to insurance.
However, most plans offer a lot more money than what we use. And like I said before, if we don’t lose it, we lose it. Have you had a red mark on your dental chart? Now is the time to take care of it, use your benefits, and have one less thing to worry about as the holidays loom.
If you know you have a treatment plan outstanding, now is a great time for a visit to see if we can utilize some of your benefits before they lapse. Have you been ignoring and ache? Sensitivity? That cracked tooth you’ve just been avoiding when you chew? Take care of it now!
While we never allow insurance to dictate our treatment plans, we want to do what we can to help you take full advantage of the money you are paying into your plan. Don’t forget about family members on your plan, too. If you have kids visiting from college for the holidays, be sure to schedule them a cleaning early in their winter vacation so we will have time to address any concerns before the end of the year.
If you have questions about your coverage or when your plan rolls over, contact your insurance carrier! Always feel free to call our office to discuss your treatment recommendations. Don’t forget about your HSA and FSA, too! These accounts can frequently be used for dental procedures. Most Flex Spending Accounts work on a “use it or lose it” basis, so don’t lose it! Let us help you get the most out of your dental plans so you can smile through the holidays, Orlando!
