It’s that time of year again when you are busy with school schedules, getting ready for cooler weather, and making upcoming holiday plans. During this hectic time, you may not be thinking about your available or unused dental insurance benefits, but our James River Family Dentistry team is!
Whether you have remaining insurance benefits or funds set aside in a flexible spending account (FSA) or healthcare saving account (HSA), now is the time to schedule treatment so your co-payment amounts can be applied to this year’s deductions.
Should I Use or Lose My Dental Benefits?
Most dental insurance plans cover a full calendar year and reset on January 1. You may lose your benefits if you don’t use them in time.
Many plans include two checkups per year at six-month intervals. Dr. Ruchi Sahota, a spokesperson for the American Dental Association, explains to Today that regular cleanings help remove bacteria that can travel to the bone.
Any issues your dentist uncovers during these visits, such as cavities and gum disease, can be addressed early to avoid costly treatments later on. For this reason, most dental insurance plans fully cover these preventative measures.
Make sure to use all available dental insurance benefits to complete any outstanding treatment or for your all-important preventive dental hygiene appointment (“checkup and cleaning”). Almost all plans do not allow you to roll over unused dollars to the next benefit year, so it’s “Use ‘Em or Lose ‘Em!”
How Do I Use My Dental Benefits?
Call us today to schedule your appointment. We find that the upcoming holiday season is always our “busy time,” and we are certain it is also a hectic time for you.
Beat the end-of-year rush and get in early! Just give us a call at (804) 323-4200 to schedule.
Please know we are here to assist you and answer any questions you may have regarding your dental treatment. We can’t wait to see you in the office!
