4 Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Dental Insurance

/0 Comments/in , /by

Having dental insurance makes it easier and more affordable to take care of your teeth. If you have dental insurance, it’s important to maximize your policy’s benefits. Your dentist in Hartford, CT, can help. Here’s what you need to know about getting the most out of your dental insurance.

1. Don’t Skip Preventive Appointments

Many dental insurance companies pay for a maximum of two dental cleanings annually. Skipping those dental cleanings means leaving benefits on the table. If you fail to make one of your cleaning appointments during the calendar year, the benefit will not carry forward to the next year.

2. Know Your Benefits

Dental insurance policies vary. Knowing the benefits and your responsibility as a patient is important. This will help you catch any errors made by your insurance company, and will help you make decisions about your dental care (when the time comes). To learn more about your dental benefits, review your policy or contact your dental insurance company to learn where your benefits are described.

3. Choose a Dentist That’s In-Network

Many dental offices have a network of dentists. Going to dentists that are in-network allows patients to take full advantage of their dental benefits. If you choose a dentist who is out of network, you could find yourself paying for services out of pocket.

4. Focus on Prevention

Many dental insurance policies focus on prevention and will pay more to help patients maintain clean, healthy teeth, versus helping patients fix their teeth after they’re injured or damaged. Is it time for your dental cleaning and exams in Hartford, CT? Call today to make an appointment.

What Happens When I Skip a Dental Appointment?

/0 Comments/in /by

When you skip a dental appointment, you may lose out on insurance benefits while damaging your teeth. Most people need to see the dentist in Hartford, CT, every six months. If you’ve missed an appointment or are thinking about skipping your next dental appointment, here’s what you need to know.

Missing Out on Benefits

Dental insurance will pay for patients to see the dentist every six months for cleanings. If you miss a dental appointment, you miss out on those benefits. At the end of the year, you will not be able to collect money for unused insurance benefits, and most insurance companies will not carry benefits forward to the next year.

Impacts On Your Teeth

When you go to the dentist for a dental checkup, the dentist will remove plaque and tartar from your mouth. Plaque is the sticky substance left behind on your teeth after eating. If left there for long enough, the plaque will turn into tartar. Tartar forms around the gumline and can contribute to gum recession.

The gums are responsible for nourishing your tooth roots, so gum recession leaves your teeth vulnerable. People with serious gum recession may experience loose permanent teeth and tooth loss.

Additionally, putting off your dental appointments makes the cleaning process more difficult when you come in. Your dental appointments may take longer and the cleaning process may be more uncomfortable.

Don’t Forget Your Appointments

Has it been more than six months since your last dental checkup in Hartford, CT? If so, then it’s time to come in for a cleaning. The dental professionals at Capitol Dental Associates can help. Call today to make your next dental appointment!