Maybe the GDP of a country or the number of grains of sand on a beach. But it’s actually the amount of money that Americans leave on the table in dental insurance benefits alone. It’s staggering, and if you currently have coverage, you want to make sure to not contribute to this alarming statistic. But how? And how are people losing out on the benefits they’ve paid for? You’ll find the answers to these questions and more in today’s blog.
100 Billion Dollars?!
To put this number in context, roughly 50% of the U.S. population is covered by some sort of dental insurance. Typically, each individual on a plan is allotted a certain amount that the insurance provider will pay per year for care—this is called an annual or yearly maximum. It ranges from about $1,000 to $1,500 depending on the policy.
Most only use about $500 from this amount, and what many people don’t know is that the yearly maximum typically resets on January 1st, and any unspent money is NOT rolled over. That means the average individual loses out on $1,000 in benefits, which is quickly compounded when you talk about families.
And as a final insult, do you know where this 100 billion actually goes? That’s right—straight back to the insurance companies!
Take Care of Your Smile (& Wallet)
Chances are that if you have dental insurance (and met your deductible for the year), you still have a decent amount of money left to spend on your dental care. But what should you use it for?
The three most effective things you can do include:
- Schedule a second checkup and cleaning. Most people only get one each year, but the American Dental Association recommends two, and the vast majority of dental insurance plans cover both of these visits 100%. This means you won’t spend anything out of pocket.
- Schedule a second checkup and cleaning for your kids. With the holidays coming up, nothing ruins plans faster than a surprise cavity or toothache. You can help your child feel great about their smile and give yourself peace of mind by getting them in for a quick visit, which once again, will probably be 100% covered.
- Complete any outstanding dental work. Has your dentist said you need a crown or filling? Need to replace one or more missing teeth? There’s no need to wait…your benefits can help you get it now before they disappear!
- Start a more involved procedure. If you’ve been thinking about getting dental implants, Invisalign, or a smile makeover, you can begin soon using your leftover 2024 benefits, and then complete it with your renewed 2025 benefits. This allows you to spread out the cost, not miss out on money you’re entitled to, and start getting the treatments you want now.
The Clock is Ticking
2025 will be here before you know it, and your current dental benefits will vanish the moment the clock strikes midnight on December 31st. For your smile, your family, your health, and your peace of mind, it’s important to take advantage of the coverage you’re entitled to. That way, you can head into the holidays and the new year with a bright smile and full wallet.
About the Practice
Dr. Krysten Jackson and Dr. Eric Parsons are husband-and-wife family and restorative dentists who graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Dentistry. Dr. Jackson completed an elite Advanced Education in General Dentistry residency there, and Dr. Parsons is constantly training to use the latest technology to deliver the most comfortable and effective treatment possible.
Reach out to us today so we can help you make the most of your dental insurance before it runs out– you can schedule an appointment at El Reno Family Dentistry by clicking here or calling (405)262-6737.