3 Tips to Make the Most of Your Dental Insurance Benefits

By prioritizing your oral health, you’ll be able to ensure your teeth remain healthy while showing off a pain-free and confident smile. There’s also the relationship between the condition of your pearly whites and your overall well-being to consider. And if you have dental insurance, you can be sure to appreciate more budget-friendly treatments—as long as you use it properly. But what’s the best way to make the most of your plan? Read on to learn three tips to help you maximize your dental insurance benefits!

Tip #1: Schedule Your Second Checkup & Cleaning of 2022

Most dental plans include two dental checkups and cleanings. This is because insurance providers understand how crucial these appointments are for preventing more serious oral health issues, such as gum disease and cavities. If you choose to skip one of these preventive care visits, you won’t expect to have an “extra” one for the next year. To guarantee you don’t forget about your second dental checkup and cleaning, make sure to schedule it with your dental team ahead of time.

Tip #2: Don’t Forget Your Flexible Spending Account

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) are employer-funded benefits that allow you to put money aside for health-related costs, such as dental care. While these aren’t technically dental insurance, they do share some similarities, like a certain timeframe to use the available funds. If you aren’t sure about the amount of money in your FSA, feel free to ask your HR manager. They (or the person managing your benefits) should be able to assist you.

Tip #3: Use Any Additional Available Benefits If You Have Them

Dental insurance benefits can vary from person to person. However, many plans revolve around a 100-80-50 coverage arrangement. This typically involves the following:

• 100% coverage of essential preventive services, including your six-month checkups.
• 80% coverage of minor restorative treatments, like fillings.
• 50% coverage of major restorative procedures, such as dental crowns and bridges.

If you end up needing any restorative services throughout the year, and you have additional available benefits, then be sure to jump on the opportunity. Since most dental plans reset on January 1^st, you’ll want to ensure you don’t allow unused coverage (as well as your own money) to go to waste.

While navigating the particulars of your dental insurance can seem overwhelming, it doesn’t have to be! Speak with your dental team if you need help understanding your benefits, and they’ll be happy to help you make the most of them to improve your smile.

About the Author

Dr. Patrick Crowley earned his dental doctorate from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. He’s also a member of several prominent organizations like the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. He offers a wide selection of high-quality and comprehensive services, such as dental checkups/cleanings, fillings, and dental crowns and bridges. If you’d like to know more about your dental insurance benefits, feel free to visit our website or call 405-751-5515.