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The majority of people hurry to use up their unused dental benefits at the year’s end, only to realize that they’re losing them. The “Use-It-or-Lose-It” clause can create unnecessary anxiety as patients scramble to book last-minute appointments. Too many miss out on priceless protection because they lack foresight. It makes sense to know and make use of such benefits before December 31st.
This blog will address no-nonsense methods that can help you maximize your dental insurance benefits and not waste hard-earned money.
Getting to know the “Use-It-or-Lose-It” Rule
The “Use-It-or-Lose-It” rule is one provision of most dental insurance policies that forces unused benefits to expire on December 31st of each year. In short, if you don’t utilize your dental insurance benefits by December 31st, forget about it.
Most individuals ignore this, assuming they will have additional time or the benefits will carry over into the next year. In most cases, that is not the scenario. This leaves us with unused coverage and no ability to receive necessary care. Not utilizing these benefits is money lost, but worse still, it is not maximizing your dental health.
To get the most out of your “Use-It-or-Lose-It” benefits, you’ll want to utilize preventive care, finish any incomplete treatments, and spend your FSA or HSA funds. You can avoid losing any money unnecessarily and keep your mouth healthy by being proactive.
Strategies to Make the Most of Your Dental Benefits
Book Preventive Care Visits
Regular dental check-ups, cleanings, and exams are typically fully reimbursed by dental insurance, but few bother to schedule them in a timely fashion. These preventive services are designed to avoid expensive dental problems. Preventive care keeps your gums and teeth healthy so you can catch issues early when they are cheap to repair.
To maximize your “Use-It-or-Lose-It” benefits, schedule these appointments at the start of the year. Waiting until the eleventh hour will limit your choices, and you may not be able to get an appointment before benefits run out.
Utilize Coverage for Unfinished Treatments
In case you’ve already started treatment like fillings, crowns, or orthodontics, it’s advisable to finish them before the year ends. Your plan may reimburse only a portion of the treatment, but by not completing it, you lose the remainder of the benefits.
Schedule follow-up visits or consultations to finish outstanding treatments and utilize your “Use-It-or-Lose-It” benefits. In this manner, you will not pay anything out-of-pocket, which could add up if you do not complete the treatment promptly.
Maximizing your “Use-It-or-Lose-It” dental benefits by the end of the year is essential to preserving your oral health and saving you money. Scheduling preventive care and finishing outstanding treatments will ensure that you don’t lose any benefits.
Don’t procrastinate. Schedule an appointment with your dentist today and take advantage of your benefits. Don’t let your dental benefits lapse this year.
