Why Have a Dental Checkup at the Start of a New Year?

As you prepare to ring in the new year, you may be asking yourself what you can do to keep your teeth and gums looking and feeling their best year-round. If you’re planning to make a few New Year’s Resolutions, why not add scheduling your next dental checkup to the list? A local dentist explains why this move can ensure the health and longevity of your smile in 2021.

Your Dental Benefits Have Renewed

If you have dental insurance, you understand that when based on a calendar year, your benefits renew on January 1. By starting the year off right and getting in for a dental checkup and cleaning, you can quickly begin using your new policy to take better care of your oral health. Most preventive visits are covered at 100% (depending on your plan), so this proactive step will not only help you avoid further problems down the road, but it will also cost you little to nothing out of pocket.

You’ll Identify Problems Before It’s Too Late

Should your dentist in Oshkosh discover signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or bite misalignment, this early visit can help mitigate the possibility of other problems in the future. Early detection and diagnosis are key for all dental issues, especially when it comes to oral cancer, cavities, and periodontal disease. Catching these problems early on will allow for immediate treatment and improved outcomes as it pertains to your oral and overall health.

You Can Meet Your Deductible Sooner

When facing the possibility of restorative or emergency dental care at the start of the year, you will meet your deductible much sooner, allowing your insurance company to pay more for the services you receive. Naturally, the number associated with your deductible and annual maximum will vary, but in most situations, you may be eligible to receive 70-80% coverage for any minor restorative services or 50-70% for any major restorative procedure.

By meeting your deductible, you will spend less when it comes to more complex dental care, allowing you to keep more money in your pocket and take better care of your oral health.

It’s important to remember that your dentist recommends you receive two dental checkups and cleanings each year. Don’t let your busy schedule cause you to put it off longer than you should. Take the next step toward better oral health in 2021 by scheduling your next dental visit today.

About the Author
Dr. Bob Heil has more than 20 years of experience working in the field of dentistry and graduated from the University of Minnesota with his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. In addition to completing a General Practice Residency at the Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis, he has Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation (DOCS) certification for sedation dentistry. Ensuring his patients are safe and comfortable during their visits, he and his team believe in providing optimal preventive services to help individuals maintain better oral health year-round. If you need a dental checkup or cleaning, contact us at (920) 235-0320.