One thing that many people forget about when thinking of dental insurance is the “Use-It-or-Lose-It” provision in most policies. In other words, if you don’t use your benefits by the end of the year, you lose them. As the year draws to a close, nearly all policyholders fail to take full advantage of their dental benefits, and in so doing, lose an opportunity for cost savings.
Understanding this clause enables you to make the most of your coverage, reduce costs, and avoid unnecessary out-of-pocket expenses. This blog will explore ways for you to make the most of your dental insurance before it becomes a thing of the past.
What is the “Use-It-or-Lose-It” Rule?
The “Use-It-or-Lose-It” rule, where dental benefits expire at the end of the plan year. Most dental insurance plans also roll over each year on some designated date, typically December 31. If you haven’t used the benefits by that date, you forfeit them entirely.
Plus, most plans have an annual cap, usually from $1,000 to $2,000. Keeping these limits in mind prevents you from squandering the whole benefit of your coverage. Just make sure you plan and take your benefits before they expire.
Why You Shouldn’t Overlook the Use-It-or-Lose-It Rule
Unused benefits expiring may also carry a hefty price. For example, if your policy covers standard checkups, cleanings, or the more extensive service of a filling, wasted benefits could cost you hundreds of dollars.
Saying goodbye to your annual maximums is equivalent to saying hello to paying out of pocket for the things you thought were covered. This wasted money could instead go toward future treatments or emergency dental care. You’re throwing away money and top-quality dental care each year by not benefiting from your benefits.
Tips to Maximize Your Dental Coverage Before Year-End
Get a Checkup: Schedule a routine cleaning or exam to use preventive benefits before they expire.
Use Unused Benefits for Necessary Treatment: If you’ve been putting off dental work, now’s the time to complete it. Fillings, crowns, and orthodontic evaluations are good examples.
Maximize Your Plan’s Coverage: Use additional services covered by your plan, like X-rays or fluoride treatments, before the year ends.
Schedule Appointments Before Deadlines: Schedule all appointments and take care of them by the end of the year. Do not wait until the deadline.
Discuss Your Dentist About Treatment Plans: If you need extensive procedures, like implants or root canals, ask your dentist about utilizing your remaining coverage.
What If You Can’t Use Your Benefits This Year?
If you’re not able to use your benefits before year-end, consider other options like carrying them over if your plan allows. Partial carryover opportunities are present through some dental plans.
Another choice is to have the family members treated using your benefits, as a suggestion from your dentist. These options need to be discussed with your dental office to receive the most benefit from your benefits.
The earlier you act before the deadline arrives, the less chance you’ll have of losing the protection you paid for.
The key to maximizing your dental plan is learning the “Use-It-or-Lose-It” rule. Schedule appointments, complete treatment, and utilize preventive care to get the most from your benefits.
Don’t wait. Start making plans today. Scheduling a visit early in the year ensures that you won’t forfeit precious coverage. Control your oral well-being and reap the best from your coverage by maximizing your benefits.
