5 Reasons to Use Your Dental Insurance Before the Year Ends

Once again, the end of the year is quickly drawing near. Here are a few important reasons to consider using your dental insurance before the year is over.

1) Annual Maximum

Your insurance policy entitles you to a set amount of coverage each year. This is typically referred to your policy’s annual maximum. Most dental plans run on a calendar year, which means they expire or “reset” at the end of the year. If you do not use this coverage during the year, you lose it.

2) Two Cleanings and Exams Per Year

It is recommended that children have dental cleanings and exams every six months. Two cleanings and two exams are covered by most dental insurances each calendar year. If you are not sure if your child has had two dental cleanings this year, call the office and we will be happy let you know if your child has utilized his/her second cleaning of the year.

3) Dental Problems Can Worsen

In addition to the routine cleanings twice per year, if your child has been diagnosed with cavities or other dental issues it is best to schedule treatment earlier rather than later. By delaying treatment you are risking more extensive and possibly more expensive treatment later. Untreated decay can worsen quickly. The enamel on children’s teeth is thinner than adult’s teeth, so what started as a small cavity can quickly turn into a larger cavity.

4) Possible Fee Increases

Every year, dental offices have to re-evaluate the fees charged, to keep in line with the industry standards.  It is possible that fees could be raised to accommodate for the cost of expenses, such as increased material costs, higher taxes, etc.  An increase in fees could raise your patient share (out-of-pocket) amount.

5) Flexible Spending Account

If you currently participate in a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you must utilize the pre-tax dollars you have contributed by the end of the year or you forfeit the amount.  These dollars that you have contributed to your FSA can be applied to your child’s dental care, but unlike HSA’s, they do not rollover to the next year.

Part of our commitment at Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry to providing your child with exceptional dental care involves ensuring that you receive all the benefits to which you are entitled. Call us today at (860) 347-4681 or email us at info@sweettoothkids.com if you have any questions about your coverage. We will be happy to help you maximize your dental insurance!

 

Kate D’Amora
Patient Care Coordinator

Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dentistry
583 Saybrook Road
Middletown, CT 06457
(860) 347-4681
www.sweettoothkids.com