We are coming to the end of 2018, and that means your to-do list may already be filling up with holiday plans and special events. Before things get too busy, patients with dental insurance may want to consider scheduling an appointment with the dentist. Taking the time to come in now is the best way to make sure that unused benefits do not slip away before the new year begins. Keep reading to find out more about how dental insurance works, and why scheduling an appointment this month can help you save on a healthy smile.
Benefits Do Not Roll Over
Perhaps the most important thing to know about dental insurance is that most plans are set on a calendar year, and most unused benefits do not roll over from one period to the next. That means that when the clock strikes midnight on December 31, all or most of the left-over discounts and coverage you were eligible for in 2018 will expire — and you will have to meet your deductible all over again to save starting in 2019.
What Is Covered by Dental Insurance?
Dental insurance provides full or partial coverage on necessary preventive, restorative, and general dentistry services. With many dental insurance plans, you are eligible to receive two checkups and cleanings free of out-of-pocket expenses per year, along with a set of X-rays — so make sure to take advantages of these treatments which contribute to a healthy and long-lasting smile. If you require dental work like a filling, crown, bridge, or anything else, you can expect restorative services to be covered between 50% and 80% once you have met your deductible.
It Is Not Too Late
The good news is that you still have plenty of time to take advantage of any unused dental benefits for 2018. To avoid losing money that you have already invested in your dental insurance plan, schedule an appointment for a routine checkup and cleaning with your dentist. If you have already met your deductible for 2018, now is a great time to get started on any necessary dental work. The team can help you make strategic decisions — possibly splitting up major treatments between periods to lower your out-of-pocket costs.
Dental offices get busy during November and December, so do not wait to get in touch with your dentist to book an appointment and rescue your dental insurance benefits for 2018! Doing so is a great way to care for your budget and your smile.
Meet the Practice
Cowlitz River Dental is a trusted provider of general, preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry services in Castle Rock, WA. As a family dentistry practice, this office accepts dental insurance and invites patients to book a visit to maximize benefits before the year is up. To do so, please do not hesitate to call Cowlitz River Dental at (360) 274-9100.