As the end of the year quickly approaches, there’s no better time than now to visit the dentist for an exam. If you’ve been putting off necessary treatments, schedule those appointments now before your insurance no longer covers them, says Dental Clinic of Stuttgart in Arkansas. The premier dental center, which specializes in general and cosmetic dentistry, encourages patients to be proactive about their oral health and receive the treatment they need at an affordable price.

Here’s how using your dental benefits before the end of the year will save you money:

• Monthly Premiums: Since you pay monthly premiums to have dental insurance coverage, get your money’s worth by using your benefits. While you may not need any costly or extensive work done, it’s always a good idea to visit a dentist at least once a year to ensure your oral health is in good standing.
• Maximum Allowance: Dental insurance plans offer a yearly allowance for what they will cover. For many, the annual maximum the insurance company will pay ranges right around $1,000. If you don’t use these benefits, they won’t roll over to the next year.
• Deductible: Your dental insurance won’t start paying for services until you’ve reached your out-of-pocket deductible, which is less than $100 for many people. If you’ve hit your deductible for the year, take advantage of the insurance allowance and head to the dentist for an exam and cleaning.
• Dental Fee Increase: As with many other services and goods, a new year means new prices. Some dentists may decide to increase their fees in January to offset the cost of rising labor and equipment expenses. To get the best deal, see your dentist now.
• Oral Health Concerns: If you’ve neglected dental care throughout the year but fear you have problems with your teeth, don’t delay any longer. Issues that aren’t addressed quickly become worse over time, leading to more expensive treatments.

Don’t let your dental benefits go to waste — schedule an appointment with Dr. Montgomery D. Heathman of Dental Clinic of Stuttgart today. You can reach his office at (501) 483-3939 to book an exam, or visit his website to learn about the array of dental services he offers.