Use Your 2020 Dental Insurance to the Full

2019 flew by fast, didn’t it? In just a few days, we will be in 2020. You might have big plans for the new year and the new decade. Perhaps you aim to reach your fitness goals, take the vacation of a lifetime, or learn a new skill. There is one more thing you should add to your to-do list for 2020: Use your dental insurance benefits to the full. A Cigna dentist in Melbourne is here to explain why and how you should do so.

Dental Benefits Will Renew on January 1

Most types of dental insurance work on a calendar year basis. Every December 31, your policy expires to be replaced immediately by a new policy on January 1. Your new benefits will include an unused annual maximum (the annual maximum is the greatest amount your insurance company will pay out for approved services throughout the year). Now is the time to start planning how you will use 2020’s annual maximum in order to take the best care of your teeth and get the greatest value possible from your insurance.

To get started with your planning process, take a bit of time to review the details of your coverage. What is your coinsurance for various services? Is there a deductible you must pay? What are the differences between in-network and out of network coverage? Once you know such things, you can confidently use your insurance to care for your smile.

Tips for Using Your 2020 Dental Benefits

Here are a few pointers to help you get the most out of next year’s dental insurance:

• Schedule a checkup now. Most dental policies allow patients to visit their dentist for two preventive appointments each year. By scheduling your first appointment early on, you’ll make sure you have plenty of time later in the year for your second checkup.
• Schedule recommended treatment right away. Delaying necessary treatment only gives dental problems the opportunity to worsen. If they reach the point where a complex procedure is needed, you will end up paying more out of pocket. That is because dental insurance usually covers a lower percentage of the cost of major treatment than it does minor treatments.
• Ask for help. The staff at your dentist’s office frequently deal with the ins and outs of dental insurance. They may be able to give you some personalized tips to help you get more out of your policy.

2020 is on our doorstep! Make sure you have a plan to use your dental benefits to the full in the new year. Both your oral health and your pocketbook will benefit.

About the Author

Dr. Cedric C. Chenet received his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Howard University in 1982. Throughout the years, he has honed his skills through advanced training and much experience. Today, he is proud to serve patients in Melbourne as an insurance-friendly dentist. To learn more about Dr. Chenet or how the team at Dental Excellence can help you get the most out of your dental benefits, contact us at 321-255-0199.