We’re already one month into the new year, which means you’ve already used up one-twelfth of your dental insurance benefits! If you haven’t scheduled your first visit yet, now is the perfect time to make that appointment and start maximizing what you’re paying for each month.
Understanding Your Dental Insurance Benefits
Most dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year, meaning your coverage resets on January 1st. Your benefits include an annual maximum (typically between $1,000-$2,000), and you might be wondering, “What happens if I don’t use my dental benefits?” They don’t roll over. It’s essentially a “use it or lose it” situation. Since you’re already paying premiums every month, why not take full advantage of what you’re entitled to receive?
What does dental insurance cover? Most plans fully cover preventive care like cleanings and exams, which means these essential services typically come at little to no out-of-pocket costs to you. At BlueDot Dental, Dr. Aaron Jeziorski and our team want to help you understand exactly what your plan offers, so you’re never surprised by unexpected expenses.
How to Maximize Your Dental Insurance This Year
Here’s a dental insurance reminder that could save you hundreds of dollars: most insurance plans cover two cleanings per year at 100%. That means you can—and should—schedule a dental visit every six months without worrying about a deductible or copay for these essential appointments.
Beyond your regular preventive care visits, your insurance may also cover:
- X-rays (usually once per year)
- Fluoride treatment
- Dental check-up and oral cancer screenings
- Periodontal maintenance if needed
Take Advantage of Your In-Network Benefits
If you have a PPO plan, visiting an in-network dentist like BlueDot Dental means you’ll enjoy pre-negotiated rates that save you money. Out-of-network providers may still be covered, but you’ll likely pay more out of pocket. HMO plans typically require you to stay within the network for coverage.
By scheduling early in the year, you give yourself time for treatment planning if Dr. Aaron Jeziorski discovers any issues during your examination. This strategic approach helps you spread out procedures throughout the year, making the best use of your annual maximum and avoiding waiting periods for certain treatments.
Don’t Let Your Benefits Go to Waste
Beyond your insurance benefits, don’t forget about your flexible spending account or HSA if you have one. These accounts also operate on a calendar year and often don’t roll over, so use your dental benefits before they disappear.
The math is simple: if you skip your preventive visits, you’re essentially throwing away money you’ve already paid in premiums. Plus, catching problems early through regular cleanings and exams typically means less expensive treatment down the road.
Schedule Your First Visit Today
Ready to use your dental benefits and start the year off right? Contact BlueDot Dental at (480) 712-6728 to schedule a dental visit. Our team will verify your coverage, explain your benefits, and help you create a treatment plan that maximizes your insurance while minimizing your out-of-pocket costs.
Visit our patient resources page for more information about insurance and payment options. Don’t wait until December to use benefits you’re paying for right now—one month is already gone, so let’s make the remaining eleven count!