Dental Benefits
As 2006 approaches, it becomes important for the many people who are fortunate enough to have dental benefits to consider visiting a dentist and getting some needed work done. Most dental plans have a ‘benefit year’ that ends on December 31. This is significant because these plans have an annual maximum allowance per patient. If these benefits are not used by December 31st, they are NOT carried over to the next year. Therefore, the unused money is ultimately lost.
For this reason, it becomes very important to go see a dentist and try to get some necessary work done before December 31. It makes good financial sense to put these benefits to use before they are gone. It is also important to note that many dental procedures take a few weeks to complete, so the sooner the appointment, the better.
If you haven’t done so already, call and make an appointment ASAP.
Other important facts
- Dental benefits do not usually cover 100% of you dentistry.
- Some companies offer 100% coverage based on previous years’ fees.
- Dental benefits are changing rapidly. Get updated information from your insurance company before making an appointment.
Some questions to ask your insurance company
- What is the annual maximum allowance per patient?
- What is the anniversary date of the policy?
- Dental benefits are paid based on which year’s fee guide?
- How often are recall appointments allowed (e.g. 6 vs. 9 months)?
- What percentage of coverage is allowed for various procedures?
