Use Your Dental Benefits Before They Expire
Most dental insurance plans follow the calendar year, which means that your benefits will reset on January 1st. If you have dental insurance, now is the time to schedule any necessary appointments so you can take advantage of your annual maximum and avoid paying out of pocket. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you schedule your appointment.
How Do Dental Insurances Work?
Dental insurance plans usually have an annual maximum, which is the most they will pay out in a year. Once you reach that maximum, you are responsible for 100% of the costs of any additional dental work. Most people don’t realize that they have reached their maximum until they get a bill for services rendered. To avoid this, it’s important to be proactive and understand your coverage. Give our office a call, and we would be more than happy to review your benefits with you.
Co-pays and Deductibles
In addition to your annual maximum, most dental plans also have a deductible, which is the amount you are required to pay before the insurance company starts paying its portion. For example, if your deductible is $50 and you have a $100 dental bill, you will be responsible for the first $50 and the insurance company will pay the remaining $50.
Your plan may also have co-pays for certain procedures. A co-pay is a fixed dollar amount that you are responsible for paying at the time of service. For example, if your co-pay for a filling is $20 and you have a $100 dental bill, you will pay $20 at the time of service and the insurance company will pay the remaining $80.
Preventive Care vs. Restorative Care
Most dental plans offer some level of coverage for preventive care, which includes routine cleanings and exams. Some plans may also cover X-rays. Preventive care is important because it helps catch problems early, when they are often more easily treated and less expensive to fix.
Restorative care includes treatments such as fillings, crowns, root canals, extractions, etc. Many plans offer some coverage for restorative care, but it is often limited compared to preventive care coverage.
Contact Us Today!
Looking for a dentist in St. Pete? Look no further than 4th Street Family Dentistry! Our highly qualified team offers a wide range of dental services, from preventative care to complex restorative work. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that our patients receive the best possible care. And we’re always accepting new patients! So if you’re looking for a dentist near you, contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you!