Do you know that thousands of dental insurance dollars go unused every year? Many patients miss out on coverage simply because they don’t plan ahead. At 360 Dental Lounge in Mansfield, TX, we want our patients to maximize their dental insurance benefits before they expire ensuring you get the care you need without unnecessary out-of-pocket costs.
Understanding how your dental plan works and scheduling timely treatments can save you money, protect your oral health, and even prevent future dental problems. This guide will show you exactly how to make the most of your insurance coverage before the year ends.
How Dental Insurance Works
Dental insurance typically operates on a calendar year, resetting each January. Most plans cover a mix of preventive, basic, and major treatments:
- Preventive Care: Routine exams, cleanings, and X-rays often covered at 100%.
- Basic Procedures: Fillings, simple extractions, and periodontal maintenance.
- Major Procedures: Crowns, bridges, and dentures coverage varies depending on your plan.
By understanding your plan, you can use dental benefits before they expire and avoid wasting coverage.
Pro Tip: Check your annual maximum and coverage percentages to plan treatments strategically.
Top Dental Treatments to Maximize Your Insurance
Here are the most common dental treatments covered by insurance that you can prioritize before your plan resets:
1. Preventive Care – Protect Your Smile
- Routine dental exams
- Professional cleanings
- Digital X-rays
- Fluoride treatments (especially for children)
Preventive care is usually fully covered, making it the most cost-effective way to maintain a healthy smile. Regular checkups also allow your dentist to spot problems early.
2. Fillings & Minor Restorations
Cavities that are treated early with fillings prevent more extensive procedures later. Most plans cover 70–80% of fillings. Delaying care may lead to bigger costs in the future.
3. Periodontal Care – Healthy Gums for Life
Gum disease affects millions but can be managed effectively. Treatments such as scaling and root planing are often partially covered by insurance. Early intervention helps prevent tooth loss and systemic health issues.
4. Crowns & Bridges – Restore Function and Appearance
Crowns and bridges are classified as major procedures but can be partially covered (usually around 50%). If recommended by your dentist, scheduling these treatments before your insurance resets can save hundreds of dollars.
5. Extractions & Oral Surgery
Whether it’s a simple extraction or wisdom tooth removal, insurance often covers a portion of the cost. Using benefits before year-end ensures you don’t lose coverage for necessary procedures.
Why Using Benefits Early Matters
- Avoid losing coverage: Unused benefits reset at the start of the new year.
- Maximize your deductible: Combine treatments to take full advantage of what you’ve already paid.
- Prevent bigger problems: Early treatment of minor issues reduces the risk of costly, extensive procedures later.
FAQs About Dental Insurance Benefits
What are dental insurance benefits?
They are the annual coverage limits your insurance provider allocates for preventive, basic, and major dental procedures.
How can I maximize my dental insurance benefits?
Schedule preventive care and pending treatments before your plan resets. Planning multiple treatments in one year can help you make the most of your coverage.
Which dental treatments are usually covered?
Exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, extractions, and periodontal care are commonly covered. Cosmetic treatments, like whitening, typically aren’t included.
Should I use my benefits before they expire?
Yes! Using benefits before year-end ensures you don’t waste coverage and helps maintain long-term oral health.
Your Trusted Family Dentist in Mansfield, TX
At 360 Dental Lounge, we serve patients in Mansfield (TX 76063) and surrounding areas within 10 miles, including Kennedale, Arlington, Euless, and Grand Prairie. Our team helps patients understand how dental insurance works and guides them to maximize dental insurance benefits for better oral health outcomes.
Call to Action
Don’t let your dental benefits go unused this year! Schedule your appointment with 360 Dental Lounge in Mansfield, TX and make the most of your insurance coverage.
📞 Call us today at (682) 370-0400 or book your appointment online to protect your smile and your wallet.
