Unsure how to maximize your dental insurance benefits? This topic can be overwhelming for many patients, especially when learning you could lose thousands of dollars if they’re not used before the end of the year. Because most dental plans are designed for one calendar year, you need to make sure you’re taking advantage of the benefits provided before midnight on December 31 arrives. Here are 3 ways to keep you from losing your hard-earned money while continuing to take proper care of your oral health.
Pursue Preventive Care
Preventive care is essential for healthier teeth and gums. This includes proper brushing and flossing at home as well as continuing to see your dentist in Houston every six months for dental checkups and cleanings. Because most dental insurance plans offer 80-100% coverage for preventive services, there’s no reason not to take better care of your oral health. After all, you can lower your risk for serious dental problems (i.e., tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, etc.) and avoid costly and timely procedures later on.
Stay In-Network
With any PPO plan, you have the option of seeing any qualified and licensed dental professional. However, if you want to save the most money, it is better to stay in-network. The reason is that dentists who are considered “in-network” have pre-negotiated contracts with one or more dental insurance companies regarding services and fees. This ensures you pay the lowest possible price when visiting the dentist’s office for treatment. If you choose to see someone out of network, you’ll be expected to pay the difference between their normal fee and that of the insurance company.
Take Better Care of Your Overall Health
The mouth and body are closely connected, which means problems that develop inside the oral cavity can lead to issues occurring throughout your brain, heart, lungs, gut, and other vital areas. Because gum disease and other common dental problems are linked to diabetes, heart disease, respiratory disease, and more, you’ll be doing yourself a big favor by using your benefits to seek early treatment. Not only will these visits work to improve your oral health, but they will help you avoid costly treatments that pertain to your body and overall wellness.
Using your dental insurance benefits will positively impact more than just your smile. As long as you commit to taking advantage of what is offered to you, you’ll expect to see a noticeable difference in your overall health and appreciate the money saved each year.
About the Author
Dr. Gregory Palmer completed his dental doctorate at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine before eventually returning to Texas and practicing dentistry to patients in Houston and its surrounding communities. With advanced training in laser dentistry and CEREC same-day technology, he offers his patients comprehensive dental care in a warm and friendly environment. Because dental work can be costly, Dr. Palmer is pleased to be in-network with several insurance providers and offers flexible financing opportunities through CareCredit and Wells Fargo Health Advantage Financing. If you’re looking to maximize your dental benefits, visit our website or call (713) 375-1777.