The holidays are right around the corner, and so is the end of the year. Between travel, parties and gift shopping, it's easy to forget one thing that could save you real money: the dental benefits you've already paid for.
If you have dental insurance, a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or a Health Savings Account (HSA), now is the time to put them to work. Here's what you need to know before the calendar flips to January.
Your dental insurance resets soon
Most dental plans come with an annual maximum, the most your insurance will pay toward your care in a given year. For many plans, that amount resets on January 1, and any unused benefits don't carry over.
That means if you haven't had your cleanings, exams or recommended treatment this year, you could be leaving money on the table. Many plans also cover preventive care like cleanings and X-rays at little or no cost to you.
Not sure where your plan stands? Our team is happy to help you check your remaining benefits.
Use your FSA before it's gone
A Flexible Spending Account lets you set aside pre-tax dollars for health expenses, including dental care. The catch is that FSAs are often "use it or lose it." Depending on your employer's plan, unused funds may disappear at the end of the year.
Some plans offer a short grace period or let you carry over a limited amount, so check with your employer or plan administrator. Either way, booking a visit before year-end is a simple way to make sure those dollars don't go to waste.
Put your HSA to work
Unlike an FSA, money in a Health Savings Account rolls over from year to year, so it won't expire. But it's still a smart, tax-advantaged way to pay for dental care.
You can use HSA funds for qualified dental expenses like cleanings, fillings, crowns and more. If you've been putting off treatment, your HSA can help cover what insurance doesn't.
Why you should book now
The holiday rush is real. December is one of the busiest months at the dentist's office, as patients rush to use their benefits. Appointments fill up fast.
You may have already met your deductible. If you've had other dental work this year, your out-of-pocket costs for additional treatment could be lower now than in January.
Small problems get bigger. A small cavity today can turn into a root canal or crown later. Taking care of it now can save you time, money and discomfort.
Schedule your visit with Corwin Family Dentistry
Don't let your benefits slip away this year. Whether you're due for a cleaning or need to finish a treatment plan, the team at Corwin Family Dentistry is here to help you make the most of your coverage before the year ends.
Call us today to book your appointment, and start the new year with a healthy, confident smile.
