(NAPSI)—If you have dental insurance, you’re already investing in your oral health. But are you getting full value from your plan? With some time and strategy, you can make the most of your coverage, avoid unexpected costs, and keep your smile looking great.
Know What Your Plan Covers
It’s important to know in advance what your plan offers so that you aren’t making any rushed decisions in the heat of the moment. Most plans categorize services into three main types:
- Preventive care: Often covered at 100%. These are cleanings and exams typically twice a year.
- Basic care: Often covered at around 70-80%. Usually for fillings.
- Major care: Often covered at 50%. Includes procedures like crowns and root canals.
Find a Dentist Who is In-Network
Understand the terms “in-network” and “out-of-network” and find a dentist who is covered. Check out Delta Dental’s helpful Find A Dentist tool or check out DentistLink, a referral service for Washington state residents, provided at no cost, by Arcora Foundation, the foundation of Delta Dental of Washington.
Don’t Skip Preventive Visits
Get preventive cleanings and exams twice a year. Seeing your dentist for regular checkups means they can catch small issues before they get too big. Can’t get in to see your dentist because they’re booked out for months? Find another who’s in network. Nine out of 10 dentists in Washington state are in-network with Delta Dental of Washington, the state’s largest dental benefits provider.
Timing Matters
Dental benefits are renewed every calendar year. Most have an annual maximum. What happens if you have extensive and expensive treatment? Ask to split treatment between two benefit periods.
Know your deductible and annual maximum
Most dental plans include a deductible (the amount you pay before insurance starts covering costs) and an annual maximum (the limit your plan will pay in a year). If you’ve already met your deductible or are close to your annual maximum, it’s smart to schedule any additional work before your benefits reset. Once the new year starts, your deductible resets too.
Use Flexible Spending or Health Savings Accounts
If your employer offers a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA), you can use those pre-tax dollars to pay for dental care, including copays, deductibles, and orthodontics. FSAs are often ‘use it or lose it,’ expiring at the end of the year, so check your balance and plan appointments before those funds disappear.
Coordinate Dental and Medical Benefits When Possible
Some procedures, oral surgery, treatment for sleep apnea, trauma-related dental work, and possibly Botox for temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) symptoms, may be covered in part by your medical insurance. Coordinate benefits to not miss out on potential coverage from both plans.
Get Cost Estimates
Your dental team can provide a pre-treatment estimate or “pre-determination” from your insurance company before starting major work. That way, you’ll know in advance how much will be covered.
Don’t Wait Until December
Many patients realize in November or December that they still have unused benefits. Unfortunately, dental offices are often booked solid at year’s end. Schedule early or find another in-network dentist for that appointment.
Create a Personalized Account
Creating a personalized account with your dental benefits provider, such as Delta Dental’s MySmile account, will help keep your dental health organized.
“It’s important to understand your plan,” says Senior Sales and Strategy Executive at Delta Dental of Washington, Max Hunter. “Either you’ve paid for it, or your employer has. Take advantage of these benefits, put them to use.”
By planning ahead, keeping up with preventive care, and asking the right questions, you can maximize your benefits, minimize costs, and keep your smile strong all year long.
Editors Note: This content is approved for Washington state publications only.
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"“It’s important to understand your dental insurance plan,” says Senior Sales and Strategy Executive at Delta Dental of Washington, Max Hunter. “Either you’ve paid for it, or your employer has. Take advantage of these benefits, put them to use.”"
