As the year draws to a close, it’s a great time to look at your dental care and ensure you’re using all of your dental benefits before they reset. At Flower Mound Family Dentistry, we understand that many people are busy and may not think about scheduling dental treatments until the last minute. However, planning for the end of the year can help you get the most out of your insurance coverage and avoid losing valuable benefits.
Schedule Restorative Treatments
If you’ve been putting off restorative treatments like fillings, crowns, or bridges, now is the time to schedule them. Restorative treatments are necessary for repairing damaged teeth and preventing further dental issues. Dental insurance often covers a portion of these treatments, and by getting them done before the year ends, you can take advantage of any remaining benefits you have for the year.
For example, dental insurance may cover a significant part of the cost if you need a filling or crown, especially if you’ve already met your deductible. Waiting until next year could mean paying more out of pocket. It helps to get those treatments done now. If you’ve been experiencing pain or sensitivity in your teeth, don’t wait—schedule an appointment as soon as possible to prevent the issue from worsening.
Consider Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic dental procedures can improve your smile, and depending on the plan, insurance may cover some treatments. If you’ve been thinking about getting cosmetic treatments, such as teeth whitening, bonding, or veneers, the end of the year is a good time to consider scheduling these procedures.
Cosmetic dentistry can also be helpful in cases where teeth have functional issues. For example, if you have a chipped or cracked tooth, a dental veneer or bonding may not only improve the appearance of your smile but also restore the tooth’s strength and function.
If cosmetic dentistry is something you’ve been considering, speak to your dentist about your options and whether your insurance will cover part of the cost. Even if insurance doesn’t fully cover cosmetic treatments, you may still be able to use your FSA or HSA (if you have one) to pay for some of the procedures.
Don’t Forget About Major Procedures
If you need more extensive treatments like dental implants, dentures, or orthodontics, now is the time to plan for these procedures. These treatments can be more costly, but insurance coverage can help offset the expenses. Many dental plans cover a portion of the cost of implants, dentures, or braces. Starting before the year ends could create less out-of-pocket expense for you.
For example, dental implants are a popular choice for people who have lost teeth. If you’re considering implants, it’s important to start the process early since the treatment often requires multiple visits over several months. When you begin treatment before the end of the year, you can get some of the work done while still using your current benefits. This can reduce the cost you’ll have to pay out of pocket in the new year.
Take Advantage of Remaining Benefits
Reviewing your remaining benefits is a good idea as the year draws to a close. Many dental insurance plans have an annual maximum, the highest amount they will pay for dental care annually. Once you’ve reached that maximum, you’ll be responsible for paying the full cost of any additional treatments.
Before the year resets, take advantage of any remaining benefits you have. If you’ve already paid your deductible or have unused coverage left, you can use it to get the dental care you need, whether for preventive care or more complex treatments. By scheduling these appointments now, you ensure you’re not leaving benefits on the table.