Why you should use your dental benefits before the end of the year

October 30, 2023

With the end of the year approaching, there's no better time than now to use  your dental benefits if you haven’t yet. Oral health is vital to overall health, but your dental benefits may not roll over into next year which means that now is the best time to visit your dentist if you haven’t in a while  .  

We'll dive into what your dental benefits are, why they’re essential, and why you shouldn’t let the year end before using your benefits to their fullest potential.  

Understanding your dental benefits 

Dental benefits are designed to assist you in maintaining good oral health. Delta Dental of Washington offers a range of plans that cover various dental services, from routine check-ups and cleanings to more complex procedures like fillings, crowns, and orthodontics. These benefits are an invaluable resource to help you keep your teeth and gums in excellent condition. 

Why dental benefits are important 

Preventive care: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are vital for the early detection and prevention of oral health issues such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Our plans make prevention even easier since most of our plans cover preventive care at low or no cost at. 

Financial protection: Dental treatments can be expensive, but with the right coverage plan, you're protected from the financial burden of unexpected dental procedures. Having dental benefits means you also have  a safety net that reduces out-of-pocket expenses and provides peace of mind. 

Overall health: Many studies have shown a clear link between oral health and overall health. Poor oral health can lead to systemic health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and more. By using  your dental benefits, you're taking proactive steps to maintain your well-being. 

Use it or lose it: Why you may want to use your benefits now 

One crucial aspect of dental benefits is the "use it or lose it" policy. Unlike some other forms of coverage, dental benefits typically do not roll over from one year to the next. If you do not use your allocated benefits by the end of the year, there is a chance you will forfeit them. Here's why you should take this seriously: 

  • Wasted money: By not using your dental benefits, you are essentially wasting money. You've paid    for these benefits, and not utilizing them means you're leaving unused resources on the table. 

  • Missed preventive care: Neglecting regular check-ups and cleanings can result in undetected dental issues that may worsen over time. This can lead to more extensive treatments in the future, which can be more costly and painful. 

  • Changes in coverage: Employers may decide to change dental insurance plans from year to year. What is covered this year may not be covered in the same way next year. By maximizing your benefits this year, you ensure that you take full advantage of your current plan. 

  • Changing schedule: There’s no telling what next year will hold for you. Make sure you fit in oral health where you can now before things change for you in the future.  

How to utilize your Delta Dental of Washington benefits 

If you have coverage through Delta Dental of Washington, you can sign into your MySmile™ account, which is your member portal.  This online hub will have all your plan and coverage information. Use this resource to:  

  1. Check when your plan ends 

  1. Find a dentist 

  1. See how much is left before you reach your annual maximum 

Sign up for a MySmile account to track all your Delta Dental of Washington plan information


MySmile

You have dental benefits. Why not use them? 

Your oral health is an essential part of your overall well-being, and Delta Dental of Washington provides valuable resources to help you maintain a healthy smile. With the year-end approaching, it's the perfect time to schedule your dental appointments and take full advantage of your dental benefits. Don't let your hard-earned benefits go to waste; invest in your oral health today for a brighter, healthier tomorrow. Schedule your appointment, and make the most of your Delta Dental of Washington benefits. Your smile will thank you!