The Smart Patient’s Checklist: Strategically Timing Treatment to Beat the “Use-It-or-Lose-It” Deadline
Dental insurance benefits are not for keeps. If you don’t use them within the year, they are gone. It is here that the “Use-It-or-Lose-It” rule takes over.
Timing is everything for your dental treatments now more than ever. Get the most out of your benefits by making your plans now. Don’t let your benefits escape. Make an appointment with your dentist today!
What is the “Use-It-or-Lose-It” Rule?
The “Use-It-or-Lose-It” clause is on most dental insurance policies. It means that benefits renew yearly, and the amount of unused benefit expires at year’s end. You lose it if you do not use your coverage.
Routine services that are reimbursed by this clause include cleanings, checkups, X-rays, and preventive care. Being aware of this clause keeps you from losing the care you need.
Why Timing Your Dental Care Matters
Taking advantage of your dental benefits by the close of the year matters. You will lose your benefits if you don’t use them, and there is no refund. Booking the appointments in advance avoids wasting your coverage.
Being forward-thinking when it comes to your treatments prevents you from also hurrying at the end. Using early appointments saves you money in the long term.
The Smart Patient’s Checklist: How to Plan for the “Use-It-or-Lose-It” Deadline
Review Your Insurance Policy: Examine your dental benefits to understand how much coverage remains.
Prioritize Necessary Treatments: Schedule preventive care appointments like cleanings and exams. Also, plan for treatments that need more time, like fillings or crowns.
Schedule Early: Dentists’ schedules fill up quickly during the holiday season. Book your appointment early to secure a spot.
Speak with Your Dentist: Discuss work that you may need with your dentist. Have them give you their professional advice on how to make the most of your benefits.
Treatments You Will Likely Need Most Frequently
Preventive Care: Cleanings, check-ups, fluoride treatments, and X-rays that help you maintain healthy teeth and mouth.
Restorative Care: Fillings, crowns, or other restorative dental care that you require.
Orthodontic Treatment: Retainers, braces, adjustments, and other treatments related to these.
Cosmetic Dentistry: Whitening, bonding, or veneers to beautify your smile.
Tips for Your Dental Benefits Management
Monitor Your Benefits All Year: Monitor the usage of your insurance plan to surprise yourself the least.
Utilize Your Flexibility: Use flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs) to pay for any out-of-pocket costs.
Do Not Wait Till the Last Minute: Avert the rush around the end of the year by booking your appointments in advance.
Planning your dental treatment before the “Use-It-or-Lose-It” deadline ensures you receive maximum insurance benefits.
Don’t wait. Make appointments with us today to utilize your benefits to the fullest. Get the most from the coverage you’ve paid for. Act now, and don’t let your benefits go to waste!
