Quick Summary
Dental insurance benefits typically reset every January, and unused coverage does not roll over to the next year. Timing your dental work strategically can save you $75 or more in deductible costs and up to $1,000 to $2,000 on major procedures by splitting treatments across benefit years. Most plans include 2 free preventive cleanings annually that represent wasted prepaid dollars if not used.
Key Takeaways
- Schedule any needed dental work before December 31 to avoid paying a new deductible in January, which can add $75 or more to your out-of-pocket costs for the same procedure.
- Split high-cost treatments like root canals and crowns across two benefit years to maximize your annual coverage limits and save $1,000 to $2,000.
- Confirm you’ve used both free preventive cleanings included in your annual plan, as unused benefits do not roll over and represent lost value.
- Contact your dental office before year-end to review your remaining benefits and identify any deductible amounts already paid that would reset in January.
Insurance Benefits Typically Don’t Roll Over To Next Year
Each year your dental insurance company probably gives you a maximum amount of available benefits. Since those benefits don’t typically roll over into the following year, you’ll want to contact us now to get your appointment scheduled! 423-899-1112
We all know how it is, once the holiday season is upon us—hectic! Life can get really busy and some things fall between the cracks. So remember that your dental health needs your attention too—not just for the sake of your teeth, but for your overall health. If you’re due (or overdue) for an appointment, make sure to talk to our Chattanooga office. Take advantage of those dental insurance benefits before time is up!
Dr. McOmie Adds…
“Each year I have people in January say “I didn’t use my insurance last year I wish I had”. I wish they had as well. There is no reason to leave insurance money on the table, so to speak, when there is dentistry that needs to be done.”
“If you have already paid your deductible for your dental insurance and need say a filling. If you wait until January you have to pay the deductible again. It can save you up to $150!” Dr. Mark McOmie
The Benefit Math Is Simple
If you have a filling done in December that costs $100 and your insurance pays 80% then your portion is $20, if you have already paid your deductible. That same filling done in January 2017. Costs $100 insurance pays 80% so your portion is $20, but you have to pay a deductible because it is a new year. If your deductible is $75 the filling costs you $95! So the difference in a week can be $75 of your dollars depending on when it was done! Be smart about your insurance and use it to your MAX advantage.
Use your dental insurance to get double benefits!
You’re not actually getting double benefits but it will feel like it. For example if you have a root canal done in 2016 then do the crown in January 2017. You can maximize your benefit. This means you save $1000-2000 out of your pocket. We love making the insurance pay instead of the patient paying.
Most insurance plans give 2 free cleanings a year have you had both?
If not you are wasting your insurance money. You pay for your insurance use it. The insurance wants you to do preventative treatment like cleanings they know in the long run it means fewer dental procedures. Make sure you have had both your cleanings this year. If you need help deciphering your insurance call us. Our helpful staff is waiting to help you understand your benefits.
Do you have any questions about your dental insurance benefits? Call us! 423-899-1112. We’re happy to work with you to create a dental health plan that works for you!
