When Do Dental Benefits Expire?

added on: October 22, 2021

Dr. George Andrews, DDSYour dental insurance policy probably has a limited amount of time until it expires, which means you’re going to want to make sure you use your benefits with your dentist in Buckhead before they’re gone forever. Each insurance has different time frames for when the policies expire, so make sure you check with your plan. Oftentimes, dental benefits expire at the end of each year and reset on January 1st of the following year, and if you didn’t use everything allotted to you, you lose it! 

Maximums Reset

Every dental insurance provides a yearly maximum of how much the insurance company will cover in 12 months. Usually, maximums range from $1,000 to $1,500 a year. However, if you don’t use that money, it will disappear at the end of the year. There’s no rolling over unused maximums, so make sure you use all that your plan has to offer. 

Deductibles Start Over

If your insurance plan requires a deductible, and you’ve met that deductible, there are benefits waiting for you to take advantage of. You see, some insurances require you to pay a certain dollar amount upfront before they’ll start to cover your care. But if you’ve already paid up to that amount and don’t use the coverage, you’re not using the benefits you probably paid for. 

Dental Prevention Saves Money

Your dentist in Buckhead will often hear patients say that they’re holding on to their dental benefits in case something happens. They are basically treating the benefits as a safety net. While, of course, it’s your choice to use your insurance as you wish, we often find that people who get regular dental checkups can use their benefits more wisely, or on things such as cosmetic dentistry. After all, preventing problems from popping up in the first place, or catching them early can make treatment quicker, easier, and cheaper.

It’s Money You Earned

If your dental insurance is through your employer, think of it this way — it’s part of your salary. After all, you’re probably paying into the insurance each and every paycheck. But if you don’t use your dental benefits, you’re not maximizing all of your hard-earned money. Even if you pay for dental insurance on your own and not through your employer, you should use the benefits provided to get the most out of your investment. 

Call your dentist in Buckhead today to discuss your end-of-the-year benefits status with our staff and also to answer any questions you may have about our services. 

About The Author
Dr. George Andrews

Dr. George Andrews is a dedicated general dentist in Atlanta, GA. With over 30 years of experience, he's committed to providing high-quality, personalized dental care. Dr. Andrews earned his DDS from the Medical College of Virginia and completed a residency in advanced general dentistry. He's a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and has been recognized as a Top Dentist by Atlanta Magazine. Outside of dentistry, Dr. Andrews enjoys playing jazz piano, cooking, and community involvement.



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