According to the National Health Interview Survey, a little over half of adults have private dental insurance; however, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports one-third of Americans haven’t been to a dentist within the past year. Dental insurance is a monthly investment that provides discounted rates for the services your teeth and gums need to stay healthy. If you pay your monthly premium, but don’t visit your dentist, you’re throwing hundreds to thousands of dollars down the drain each year. It’s not too late to maximize your benefits. Here’s how you can achieve the healthy smile you deserve for minimal expense.