WHY IT’S BEST TO MAXIMIZE YOUR DENTAL BENEFITS STARTING NOW

The new year has just begun, and the last thing on your mind is probably going to the dentist near you. After all, as long as you see him twice a year, there’s no issue, right? While technically, this theory isn’t incorrect, you could be costing yourself a lot of money and valuable time by choosing to wait. If you’re wondering why you should be scheduling a dentist appointment for sooner rather than later, read on to learn just how advantageous it can be in the long run to start maximizing your dental benefits now.

Why Kickstart the Use of Your Benefits Now?

On January 1 of each year, your dental benefits restart. When pulling up the dashboard on your account, you’ll see a “0” next to your deductible and annual maximum. That means you have 365 (or 366 in 2020) days to use your benefits before they expire…again. So, if you’re wondering why the rush to suddenly start using them right now, here is a few reasons why:

• Start the year with a healthy smile. Depending on your individual dental insurance plan, it is likely that regular dental checkups and cleanings are covered anywhere between 80-100%. Since you’ll be expected to pay little to nothing at your dental appointment, you can kick off 2020 with a healthier, more vibrant smile.
• Address problems now instead of later. If you’ve recently learned that you need a dental crown or other restorative treatment, you can go ahead and schedule to have it completed without worry about your benefits expiring. Too often, people wait until the last minute. By using your benefits now, you can worry less about fixing your current dental problem.
• Get what you pay for. Each month, you’re expected to pay a premium to the insurance company for continued access to your benefits. Why wait to use them? Start taking advantage of them as early as you can. This will ensure you get the most out of them before they expire, leaving little to nothing for the insurance companies to take back when the clock strikes midnight on December 31.

Importance of Regular Dental Visits

Although all of the reasons listed above should be enough to have you picking up the phone to schedule your next dentist’s appointment in North Port, FL 34287, the ultimate fact is that maintaining good oral health will do nothing but benefit you in the long run. How?

By preventing problems before they start, you are cutting down on time and money spent on restorative and emergency dental treatments throughout the year. Poor oral hygiene can result in tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and more, all of which will have you seeing your dentist more frequently for treatment. But if you stick to your regularly scheduled dental appointments, you can avoid unnecessary procedures and instead keep your teeth and gums in optimal shape.

If you’re unsure of how to go about navigating your insurance policy or are unaware of ways you can take advantage of your benefits, talk to a member of your dental team.

About the Author

Dr. Paul Stein earned his bachelor’s degree in biology with honors from Rollins College before going on to pursue his Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. For more than 20 years, he has been practicing dentistry and helping individuals in both private practices and as the Dental Director of the Sarasota County Health Department. As a member of the Shore Dental team, he and his colleagues strive to help patients achieve optimal oral health, especially when it can lead to other health-related problems. To learn more about Dr. Stein and our services offered, contact us via our website or call (941) 257-0826.