Can you believe that the end of 2020 will be here in just a few short months? While most of us are looking forward to brighter days in 2021, you may still have some important tasks to take care of this year. For example, you may be looking for great deals on gifts for your family, preparing to file your taxes, or thinking about your resolutions for the new year. However, there is one important item that many people forget about — their 2020 dental insurance benefits. Let’s talk about how you can use your policy to the full before it expires.
Remember that Benefits Do Not Roll Over
Most PPO dental plans operate on a calendar-year basis. At the beginning of the year, you’re allotted a certain amount that you can put toward necessary treatments. This amount, called your annual maximum, may expire on December 31. Any unused portion of it will disappear forever. Therefore, if you know you require a certain treatment, the best time to schedule it is now — before your 2020 dental policy is nothing but a memory.
Schedule a Preventive Appointment
It is common for dental insurance companies to allow policyholders to attend two cleanings and checkups each year. Often, these services are provided for little to nothing out of pocket. If you have not yet had your second hygiene appointment of 2020, contact your dentist to request an appointment as soon as you can.
What if your last cleaning and checkup was less than 6 months ago? Many people had to postpone their initial appointment of 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions. If that is the case for you, don’t worry. Your policy probably does not require you to wait a full 6 months between preventive appointments.
Trust That Your Dentist Will Keep You Safe
Dentists across the country have put strict measures in place to keep their patients safe from COVID-19. For example, they may use virtual waiting rooms, thoroughly clean the operatories between each appointment, and pre-screen patients and staff members for possible signs of COVID-19. Concerns about the pandemic should not prevent you from taking full advantage of your 2020 dental insurance.
Be Sure Your Dentist Works With Your Insurance
PPO dental policies allow you to use your benefits at any dental practice. However, it’s still wise to check with your dentist in order to understand their stance on insurance. You may save a bit of money if you visit an in-network practice. Here at Southeastern Dental Care, we are happy to work with most major insurance providers, including Aetna, Delta Dental, BlueCross BlueShield, and many more. Give us a call to learn how we can help you maximize your benefits!
The clock is ticking on 2020 dental insurance policies. Use the above tips to maximize your coverage before it disappears.
About the Author
Dr. Minh-Phuong Bui is a graduate of Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. She is serious about continuing education and has attended advanced training in dental implants, root canal therapy, and other facets of her profession. She and our team are happy to help patients use their dental insurance to the full. To learn more about us and our practice’s financial policies, contact us at 508-947-5717.