When the year is coming to an end, we think of planning for the holidays and what we’re doing to celebrate the New Year. Besides thinking of New Years’ resolutions, take time to review the year-end checklist for your dental coverage. Consider what preventive care services you had during your dental plan year and what other dental work you have coming up.
If you haven’t seen your dentist in a while, now’s the time to schedule that appointment. Contact us at Axion Dental 708-995-7495 or at our website axiondentalcare.com and let us get you scheduled to maximize those benefits before you run out of time!!
Follow our top five to-dos to maximize your dental benefits before the new plan year:
FIND OUT WHEN YOU’RE GOING TO HIT YOUR ANNUAL MAXIMUM.
Your annual maximum is the total amount of money your dental benefit provider, like Delta Dental, will pay toward your dental care in one plan year. If your dental plan is based on a calendar year (January through December), your annual maximum will refresh each January. If your plan is based on a contract year (starts and ends during a different 12-month period), your annual maximum will refresh after that plan year.
If you exceed your annual maximum by getting more dental care after you’ve hit your limit, you won’t be sharing the cost anymore. You, the member, will be responsible for the amount over your annual maximum.
UNDERSTAND IF YOU HAVE MET YOUR DEDUCTIBLE.
A deductible is a specific dollar amount you pay before your dental insurance provider begins to contribute toward your dental care. If you’ve met your deductible for this year, take advantage of that. By scheduling dental visits after you’ve met your deductible and before your plan year end, you’ll save money. If you wait until your plan year starts over again, you’ll have to meet that plan year’s deductible all over again.
PUT YOUR FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT TO USE.
A flexible spending account (FSA) is a special account that you may be able to enroll in through your employer. It allows you to save a portion of your pre-tax income to help pay for certain medical and dental costs.
CONSIDER HOW PREVENTIVE DENTAL CARE IS COVERED.
Dental plans are designed to focus on preventive care, and many plans completely cover regular exams and cleanings. A regular dental exam often includes a thorough cleaning of the teeth, a screening for oral cancer, and a general exam to see how healthy your mouth is. Take advantage of this coverage, as preventive care can benefit your oral and overall health and save you money in the long run.
COORDINATE YOUR DENTAL CARE.
Are you up to date on your dental care? If so, pat yourself on the back. Maintaining your oral health and having dental benefits is proven to save money.
A new plan year will see your annual maximum and your deductible reset, so take both into consideration when planning dental treatment.
