Like most people, you probably have a lot of monthly bills to pay, and your dental insurance premium is one of them. Each time it’s drafted from your account, you might ask yourself, “Is this really worth paying for?” Actually, it is if you take advantage of your available benefits. Your coverage can help you save on preventive treatment and reduce out-of-pocket costs on restorative care. As you think about your plan, here are 3 reasons you’ll be glad to budget it into your monthly expenses.
Your Two Preventive Dental Appointments Will Cost You Little or Nothing
If you like saving money, using your dental insurance to cover your biannual checkups and cleanings is the way to go! Most companies build their plans to encourage preventive care, covering 80-100% of the cost. Why? Because it reduces the risk of more expensive treatment later, such as fillings, crowns, dentures, root canals, and tooth extractions.
As a result, dental insurance companies can avoid paying for these restorative services. This means you are rewarded financially when you visit your dentist for checkups and cleanings. They can catch problems early and keep your oral health in shape, all while you pay little or nothing out of pocket.
You Get the Care You Need at a Lower Price
Say you have a badly decayed tooth, and your dentist recommends root canal treatment. You’ve already met your annual deductible, but you’re worried about how much the procedure will cost. With dental insurance, you’ll pay less.
As long as you keep paying your monthly premium, your insurer will likely pay up to 50% of the bill, reducing the amount you are required to pay. Naturally, your annual maximum will be considered before your insurance company decides how much they’re responsible for, but you can still expect greater savings in the end.
You Avoid Costlier Health-Related Treatment in the Future
What develops in your mouth doesn’t always stay there. Much evidence shows oral bacteria and infections can spread to other areas of the body, causing chronic health problems. Without regular treatment, you can spend thousands or more on necessary care to improve your overall well-being.
Dental insurance, however, can reduce this risk and give you a better chance of maintaining improved oral and overall health in the long run.
Don’t consider your monthly dental insurance premium as “just another expense.” Instead, view it as an investment that gives you greater peace of mind when you take full advantage of its benefits.
About the Author
Dr. Hiren Patel earned his dental degree in the United States from the University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine in 2011. He previously attended the Government Dental College & Hospital in Ahmedabad, India, in 2006. As the leader of our team at HIC Dental-Implant & Family Dentistry, he offers affordable ways for patients to get the care they need. If you want to use your dental insurance to pay for preventive or restorative treatment, visit our website or call us at (210) 590–2736 to schedule an appointment.