How to Use your Dental Insurance in the New Year

The New Year is hours away.  As the clock strikes twelve, we hope you and your families welcome in the New Year with happiness and enthusiasm.  However, when the confetti is done falling and the party horns have been put away, it’s time to look to what you want to accomplish in the new year.  As a dentist San Mateo residents trust for their cosmetic dentistry needs as well as crowns and bridges, let us offer a recommendation.  In our experience, most people don’t take advantage their New Years’ resolutions.  So, create a goal of a new smile instead.  Rather than worrying about fad diets work on improving your smile and oral health.  Make the most of your dental insurance benefits and see how easy you can get that smile you’ve dreamed about. 

What does my dental insurance cover?

Dental insurance is not always a one-size-fits-all type of policy.  However, many basic plans are similar in that they cover basic preventative dentistry needs.  This means, they cover two dental examinations per year, X-Rays once a year, and fluoride treatments.  Your co-pay may vary from policy to policy, yet little more out-of-pocket expense will be needed if you simply need preventative dentistry procedures.  Thus, if you practice a good oral hygiene routine and have a healthy mouth, basic coverage is all you need.  The problem, however, is that often unexpected oral health issues occur.  Then, basic coverage is not enough.  So, what are your options?

Utilize your HSA or FSA plan

When a cavity arises, chances are that dental insurance covers most of the procedure and part of the amalgam filling, maybe more.  However, many people prefer to opt for white composite fillings over the silver filling so as to not make the cavity noticeable.  Ask our San Mateo dentist staff if they can work with your insurance company in this case.  Our team can help you understand your policy and help determine your options.  You might be able to get a white composite filling while only having to pay the difference of the two.  Another option is to use your HSA, or health savings plan.  If you need a crown or a dental implant, this is a great time to explore your HSA and FSA plans.  Many dental procedures qualify for restorative dental procedures.  This way, you can keep your smile looking great while making the most of your health savings plan.

Use it before you lose it

Money on the table at the end of the year is frustrating when you don’t use it.  Take the time now, at the beginning of the year, to understand what your dental insurance policy and HSA plan covers so you can make the most of your benefits.  Make a New Year’s resolution to schedule your two cleanings and dental exams for the year and, set money aside starting now if you have an interest in a smile makeover or other improvement to your oral health.

The goal at our San Mateo dentist office is to keep smiles looking great while providing affordable, high-quality dental services.  We love assisting patients with their dental needs and do what we can to ensure smiles last a lifetime.  Call us if you need to schedule an appointment or if you have questions about your dental insurance.  Follow our office on Facebook for more oral health topics or to learn more about us.  We wish you all a Happy New Year and look forward to seeing your smiles in our office soon.