Your Annual Dental Health Audit: A Guide to Using Your “Use-It-Lose-It” Coverage

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By Dentist At Plum Creek Kyle

Did you know that millions of people lose hundreds of dollars in dental benefits every year simply because they didn’t get going quickly enough? The “Use-It-Lose-It” dental insurance plan can be the solution to a healthier smile and huge savings. Far too often, people lose their benefits without even realizing it before the end of the year.

With December approaching, now is the time to act and make the most of every benefit available. This blog will take you step-by-step through how to utilize your “Use-It-Lose-It” dental benefits to your benefit so you don’t leave money on the table.

What Is the “Use-It-Lose-It” Policy?

The “Use-It-Lose-It” policy means that unused dental benefits lapse at the end of the year. Usually, your benefits will roll over to the new December 31st, and any carried-over funds will pass away. Most dental coverages are under the same stipulation, leading to forfeited benefits if they’re not used within that time!

Knowledge of this policy is critical to avoid leaving good coverage on the table. Unused benefits are often assumed to roll over, but that’s not how the system works. Don’t wait. Get ahead of it by using your dental benefits before the year and all of the protected services expire.

Why Acting Now Matters

Waiting to use “Use-It-Lose-It” benefits could get expensive. If you delay getting treatment that you need, say cleanings or fillings or even checkups, you may be on the hook to pay for these services yourself.

Dental insurance plans are on an annual reset, so any of those unused benefits disappear each December 31st. Don’t allow missed opportunities to cause undesired dental issues or additional cost.

Early and preventive care can prevent such costly interventions, as numerous studies show. Using your benefits now may also help prevent any financial discomfort that may come with dental treatment. Don’t let your benefits go to waste.

Necessary Dental Services to Take Advantage of by Year’s End

Don’t let your “Use-It-Lose-It” benefits go to waste. Make appointments for routine cleanings and check-ups to maintain your teeth’s health and avert potential issues. Routine dental exams can detect problems before they become serious, such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer.

Preventive treatments like fluoride and sealants are included in most insurance policies and act as further protection for your teeth. If you’ve considered cosmetic procedures like whitening, veneers, or fillings, now is the ideal time to take advantage of your benefits. Moreover, restorative treatment such as crowns, bridges, or implants can be funded, so you can achieve the healthier, more confident smile you desire.

Maximizing Your Coverage

Maximizing your “Use-It-Lose-It” dental benefits starts with taking a look at the details of your plan. Inquire about your levels of coverage and what kinds of procedures are covered. While some only accommodate basic services, others focus on cosmetic or restorative methods.

Next, schedule a visit with your dentist to go over any procedures that you need scheduled before the end of the year. It is recommended that you consult your dentist to recommend treatments that are best suited for you.

Lastly, schedule early. The busiest year-end time is typically booked solid, so if you want to ensure that you don’t miss out on some of the treatments, it would be best to get your appointment scheduled a long while in advance.

Don’t wait too long. Take action now by checking your “Use-It-Lose-It” dental benefits, scheduling an appointment with us, and getting any necessary treatment done.

So the sooner you act on your dental care, the more money you can potentially save and protect your smile in your future. Use your benefits while they last and enjoy a healthier, whiter smile all year long.