As we approach the end of the year, it’s important to think about your dental insurance benefits and make sure you’re maximizing them before they expire. Many dental insurance plans operate on an annual basis, which means unused benefits typically don’t carry over to the next year. At Atherton Smiles, we’re here to help you make the most of your dental coverage, avoid last-minute rushes, and prioritize your oral health with preventive care.
Why use your dental benefits before year-end?
If you have dental insurance, chances are your plan includes a maximum annual benefit, often covering preventive services like cleanings and exams in full or at a very low cost. However, these benefits don’t roll over; if you don’t use them, you lose them. That’s why we recommend scheduling any remaining treatments now to avoid missing out on valuable coverage. Here’s why booking your appointment before the end of the year can be beneficial:
- Maximize coverage: Dental plans often cover a percentage of specific treatments up to an annual maximum. Scheduling preventive and restorative treatments before year-end can help you make the most of these benefits.
- Prevent costly procedures later: Regular cleanings and checkups help catch issues early, which can save you from more extensive (and expensive) treatments down the road.
- Avoid the January rush: Many patients delay appointments until the end of the year, which can make scheduling tricky. Booking early helps you secure a convenient time slot.
The importance of preventive care
Preventive care is essential to maintaining optimal oral health, and regular checkups and cleanings play a significant role in preventing issues such as cavities, gum disease, and other dental complications. Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care at 100%, so you can often take advantage of cleanings, X-rays, and exams with little to no out-of-pocket cost. Here are a few reasons why preventive care is crucial for your oral health:
Early detection: Preventive checkups allow our dental team to catch minor issues before they become major concerns, reducing the likelihood of invasive and costly treatments.
Better long-term health: Keeping up with preventive dental appointments reduces the risk of gum disease, tooth decay, and other complications that can impact your overall health.
Cost savings: By addressing issues early on, you avoid expensive procedures that may not be fully covered by insurance, helping you save money in the long term.
Additional benefits of using your insurance at Atherton smiles
Our goal at Atherton Smiles is to provide you with high-quality care while making it as easy as possible to take advantage of your dental insurance benefits. As an in-network provider for many insurance plans, we work closely with your insurer to ensure that you receive maximum coverage on essential treatments.
Flexible payment options: If there are any out-of-pocket expenses, we offer flexible payment plans, including interest-free monthly payments, to make your care more affordable.
Convenient Ccaims process: We handle all the insurance paperwork directly with your provider, so you don’t have to worry about filing claims or understanding complex billing procedures.
Don’t delay – book your appointment today!
With year-end approaching, schedules can fill up quickly. If you’ve been putting off a dental visit or need to complete a recommended treatment, now is the perfect time to book your appointment. Whether it’s a routine cleaning, a filling, or a crown, Atherton Smiles is here to ensure your smile stays healthy and bright.
Don’t let your benefits go to waste! Schedule your appointment with Atherton Smiles today to make the most of your coverage before the year ends. Give us a call at +1 (650) 365-1533 or visit our website to book your appointment. We’re here to support you with convenient, affordable, and exceptional dental care in Atherton.
Frequently asked questions
1. What if I only need preventive care—do I still need to book before year-end?
Yes, especially if your insurance fully covers preventive care like cleanings and exams. Booking now ensures you take advantage of this benefit while addressing any small issues early.
2. What if I reach my maximum coverage before the year ends?
Some patients reach their annual limit on benefits. If additional treatments are needed, we can help plan them strategically to maximize coverage for the new year and provide flexible payment options for anything needed immediately.
3. Are there certain treatments I should prioritize before the year ends?
Preventive checkups and restorative procedures like fillings are often covered at higher rates by insurance. Scheduling these before year-end ensures you benefit from maximum coverage.
4. What if I don’t know my insurance coverage details?
Our team at Atherton Smiles is happy to review your insurance benefits with you, provide cost estimates, and discuss your best options for coverage before scheduling.
