New Haven Dental Group is a 42 North Dental Care, PLLC practice and is owned and operated by dentists Dr. Samuel Shames, DDM. and Dr. Ronald Weissman, DDM. Gentle Dental is supported by 42 North Dental, LLC, a dental support organization that provides non-clinical administrative and business support services to the practice. 42 North Dental, LLC does not own or operate the dental practice or employ dentists to provide dental services. Find more information about 42 North Dental, LLC and the dental practices it supports at 42northdental.com.
Do you have a dental insurance policy? Your coverage is a precious resource that can do much to help you maintain your oral health. But how do you use your coverage? Many individuals see their policy as just a backup plan that will reduce the expenses associated with a dental emergency. However, while insurance is certain useful when you need urgent oral health care, its value goes far beyond that! What can you do to maximize your dental insurance benefits in 2020? A dentist in New Haven is here to share five useful tips.
1. Keep Up with Preventive Care
Your dental insurance policy probably allows you to attend two cleanings and checkups each year at little to no out of pocket cost. These preventive visits are essential for your oral health because they let your dentist identify and treat problems with your gums and teeth before they become serious.
2. Schedule Restorative Treatment ASAP
During your checkup, it is possible that your dentist will inform you that you have a cavity, gum disease, or other problem that requires treatment. It is financially wise to schedule any recommended procedures as soon as possible. That is because insurance offers a higher level of coverage for minor services than for major ones. For example, fillings may be covered at 80%. However, if a cavity worsens and requires more extensive treatment, your policy might cover as little as 40% or 50% of the cost.
3. Remember that Benefits Do Not Roll Over
Usually, dental insurance plans work on a calendar-year basis. At the beginning of the year, you are given an annual maximum, which is the greatest amount that your insurance company is willing to pay for your treatments throughout the year. Any unused portion of your maximum may expire on December 31. It is rare for dental policies to have any type of rollover provision. Therefore, if you know you need a certain treatment, it would be wise to schedule it right away — before your 2020 insurance benefits disappear.
4. Be Strategic with Major Procedures
In many cases, major procedures take place across multiple appointments. You can use this to your advantage by scheduling the first part of a treatment this year and the rest of it in 2021. You will thus be able to use two annual maximums instead of one.
5. Utilize Your FSA
A flexible spending account (FSA) allows you to set aside tax-free money that you can use for medical and dental expenses. FSAs usually expire at the end of the year. If you have one, it would be smart to consider how you can combine it with your insurance to get the dental care in you require in 2020.
Are you maximizing your 2020 dental insurance benefits? The above tips can help you get the greatest value possible out of your policy.
Meet the Practice
New Haven Dental Group boasts a large team of general dentists and specialists who are ready to provide top-tier care to patients throughout our county at a reasonable price. We are happy to accept payment from virtually any PPO insurance plan, and our front office staff will be pleased to help you understand and use your coverage. To learn more about how we can assist you, contact us at 203-781-8051.