Dental Insurance: If You Don’t Use It… You Lose It!
Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Book Your Appointment
As the year winds down, many people don’t realize they’re leaving hundreds—sometimes even thousands—of dollars of dental benefits unused. If you have dental insurance, it’s important to understand how your plan works so you can make the most of what you’re already paying for.
Most dental insurance plans operate on a “use it or lose it” basis. That means any unused benefits do not roll over into the next year. When the clock strikes midnight on December 31st, any remaining coverage disappears—gone for good.
Whether you pay monthly premiums or receive coverage through your employer, unused benefits are essentially money left on the table. You’ve earned them—so make sure you take advantage of them.
Most dental insurance plans fully or mostly cover preventive services like cleanings, exams, and X-rays. These visits help detect issues early before they become painful—and expensive—to fix later.
Small cavities can turn into big problems. Gingivitis can progress into gum disease. Using your benefits now means you can address dental concerns early, comfortably, and affordably.
Every plan includes an annual maximum—the highest dollar amount your insurance will pay within the year. If you don’t use it, it resets. If you’ve been postponing treatment, now is the time to take action while coverage is still available.
Dental offices fill up quickly in November and December with patients trying to maximize their benefits. Booking early ensures you get your preferred time and don’t miss your chance.
Depending on your plan, many services may be partially or fully covered, including:
Routine cleanings
Exams and digital X-rays
Fillings
Crowns
Root canals
Extractions
Periodontal cleanings
Whitening trays (in some plans)
If you’re unsure what your plan covers, our team can help you understand your benefits.
If you’re wondering how much coverage remains on your plan, simply give our office a call. We can:
Review your insurance plan
Estimate what your remaining benefits will cover
Prioritize the most important treatments
Schedule any needed appointments before the year ends
Your dental insurance is a valuable tool for maintaining your oral health—and your smile. Since benefits expire at the end of the year, now is the perfect time to take full advantage of them.
Use your benefits before you lose them. Your future smile will thank you!