As the end of the year approaches, many patients think about the holiday season. However, it is important that patients also think about visiting the dentist in Franklin, OH to use dental insurance benefits before the end of the calendar year. Dental insurance is a benefit that many patients pay for out of each paycheck, and most plans will provide treatment for not only routine services but also necessary repairs to the smile. If you have not used your benefits by this point in the year, we strongly encourage you to book an appointment to take full advantage of your plan.

What is dental insurance?

Dental insurance is a policy that many patients obtain through their employer or through the government that is paid into each month and provides coverage for many dental treatments. In most plans, routine cleanings and examinations every six months are either greatly discounted or entirely free. Dental treatments, such as tooth replacement and repair, are often covered in part or fully, depending on the level of coverage patients have. Patients who pay into a dental insurance plan will find that they have benefits that expire at the end of the year, and most plans are “use it or lose it.” If you are overdue for an evaluation or a cleaning, we encourage you to call our practice for an appointment to get in before the end of the calendar year to reap the rewards of dental insurance coverage.

What is covered with dental insurance?

All dental insurance plans are different, so patients are advised to call their insurance provider to ask about the benefits that they can use. Most provide coverage for preventative care in one form or another, and repairs to the smile may be covered at least partially. Elective procedures, including common cosmetic treatments, may not be covered, as these treatments are often not necessary for the health of the smile. However, speaking to your insurance provider is the best way to determine the coverage provided and decide as to how to use it before the end of the year.

Most insurances will cover procedures such as:

• Dental cleanings
• Examinations
• X-rays
• Dental crowns
• Dental fillings
• Dentures

Why use dental insurance before the end of the year?

Most dental insurance plans provide coverage from January 1st of the year through December 31st. When patients do not utilize these benefits, they typically do not carry over to the following year. Because patients pay money for these plans, it only makes sense that they take full advantage of the available benefits. Patients are urged to visit their dentist every six months for a cleaning and evaluation, which is typically covered by dental insurance plans, so it seems like a simple way to maintain a healthy smile without having to break the bank!

What can I expect during my routine visit?

Routine dental visits are simple and quick and give patients the chance to take care of their smile and reduce the risk of problems. During this appointment, patients will visit the dentist to have their smiles evaluated. The dentist will look for signs of periodontal disease or cavities. Any other concerns will be brought up during this time. Then, our dental hygienists will clean the teeth to take care of any plaque or tartar that may be forming. If there are cavities, patients can have them addressed the same day or schedule a separate appointment. X-rays are taken to check the health of the smile, but not at every visit.

Ready to use your dental benefits?

Before the end of the year, Drs. Everhart and Kori welcome patients into the practice of K&E Advanced Dentistry to utilize dental insurance benefits as soon as possible. This ensures you make the most out of your dental insurance plan and get the care you need for a healthier smile! Call our office today in Franklin, OH at (855) 912-7677 and visit the practice at 3420 Atrium Boulevard, Ste. 100. We accept new patients for comprehensive care. We have two locations – in Franklin, OH.