Still Have Insurance Benefits Left? See Your Dentist in Boonville Today!

Does your dental insurance plan operate on a calendar year? If so, you’re running out of time to use your leftover benefits before the end of December. If you’ve been keeping up with the premiums, then you should take advantage of the services you’ve paid for by making an appointment with your dentist in Boonville. Take the time to review what’s covered by your carrier and remember why it’s best to receive dental care now rather than waiting for a serious issue to occur.

What Does Dental Insurance Cover?

The exact benefits provided by your PPO plan depends on who your carrier is, but for the most part you can expect them to follow a “100-80-50” structures as follows:

• 100: Routine preventive care – that is, regular cleanings and diagnostic checkups – are usually completely covered by insurance.
• 80: Your insurance will pay most of the cost for basic procedures like fillings or root canals that are necessary to protect or save your tooth.
• 50: If a major procedure is needed, such as a crown to repair a damaged tooth or a bridge to fill an empty gap, your insurance company may pay for half of it.

You can expect every insurance plan to be different; for example, some companies might have a different definition for what’s covered under “major” or “basic” procedures.

Why Should You Use Your Dental Insurance Benefits Now?

Benefits don’t roll over; they expire. That means you lose any unused benefits once the new year begins. If you’ve already paid your premiums, this can end up costing you a lot of money. On the other hand, maximizing your benefits can end up saving you hundreds of dollars in the long run!

At the very least, you should have two dental cleanings and checkups each year. These visits will help your dentist detect and treat gum disease and cavities in their earliest stages. Leaving these conditions alone will only lead to needing more complex, expensive treatment. It’s far better for your finances – as well as your oral health – to make full use of the coverage you receive for preventive care.

If you need additional treatment, such as a filling or a crown, it’s better to receive it sooner rather than later. Once the new year arrives, your deductible will reset, and you’ll have to pay it again before receiving any coverage from your insurance carrier. Also, there’s a chance your dentist will need to raise their rates in January, and that will affect the amount you have to pay out of pocket.

It doesn’t make sense to pay for dental insurance and not use the benefits it offers. Take the time to ask yourself, “When’s the last time I saw a dentist near me?” If you’re not sure, now could be the best time to pick up the phone and call their practice. Your smile and your wallet will both be better off for it.

About the Author

Dr. Joseph T. Kelly is the proud owner of Great Impression Dental in Boonville. From dental implants, wisdom tooth extractions and all kinds of preventive and restorative care, he makes it a point to always bring his patients friendly, family-oriented care. To schedule an appointment or ask about dental insurance, visit his website or call (660) 882-7522.