Think back to the last time you visited the dentist. Did you have a basic cleaning and exam performed or something more extensive? If you’ve only had one visit to the dentist this year, it’s time to start thinking about maximizing your benefits. Far too often dental benefits are wasted because people aren’t aware of the treatments they can take advantage of before next year.
That’s why a Dentist In Orlando is prepared to go over the most common treatments insurance tends to cover and why you should consider them.
DENTAL INSURANCE WILL EXPIRE SOON
Dental insurance is considered to be a “use it or lose it” type of insurance. This means that any funds sitting in your Flexible Savings Account or unused benefits tied to your plan will expire on January 1st. Considering that you needed to pay money into these programs in order to utilize them, you’re letting money go to waste if you let them expire. That’s why now is the best time to schedule, especially if you’ve only been to the dentist once this year.
PREVENTIVE TREATMENTS
Most PPO dental plans let you take advantage of services designed to help you maintain long-term oral health and avoid dental emergencies. Treatments like these are often covered between 80 and 100 percent under dental insurance and usually include cleanings, exams, X-rays, and oral cancer screenings. In some cases, it may also include fluoride varnishes, but this can vary based on age. If you’re providing care for a younger patient, it’s more likely to be considered preventive care than if you’re pursuing the treatment as an adult.
BASIC CARE
In the event that you need more significant treatments, such as fillings, extractions, and root canal therapy, insurance can help you pay for them. These are typically covered up to 80 percent and are designed to prevent issues you currently have from worsening over time. If you want to save money on a crown, which is typically not covered as much as a filling, then getting that filling placed now is the best decision you can make. A root canal treatment requires a crown regardless, but at least you avoid the need for an extraction and the costs of replacing that tooth via a bridge or dental implant.
MAJOR SERVICES
Major services include more substantial restorative treatments like crowns, bridgework,] and full or partial dentures. It may also include periodontal treatment to treat extensive gum disease that routine cleanings cannot fix. Most dental insurance plans cover these treatments up to 50 percent. At this point, these treatments are meant to make basic tasks like consuming foods throughout the day and regular oral care possible again. They also prevent future complications, such as shifting teeth, excessive wear on the temporomandibular joint, and chronic teeth grinding.
Your dental benefits shouldn’t be an afterthought. To keep your oral health in check and prevent issues later, schedule an appointment today!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr.Ziyad Maali earned his dental degree from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. He is currently in-network with most major PPO dental insurances and more than happy to file claims on your behalf. To learn more about his practice or how to maximize your benefits, you can contact him through his Website.
