Use It Or Lose It: What You Need To Know About Year-End Dental Insurance Deadlines

Many individuals are concentrating on holiday preparation and finishing their annual to-do lists as the end of the year approaches. Making the most of your dental insurance benefits before they expire is one thing you shouldn’t ignore. It’s important to take action right now to prevent losing these advantages.

So, before the year ends, here’s what you need to know to maximize the benefits of your dental insurance.

Understand Your Dental Insurance

Most dental insurance plans offer an annual maximum, which is the total amount your insurance will cover for dental treatments within the calendar year. This amount typically depends on your specific plan. If you haven’t used your full allowance by the end of the year, any remaining amount does not carry over into the next year.

Because of the ‘use it or lose it’ nature of these plans, it’s important to check how much of your annual maximum you’ve used. Whether you need routine cleanings or more extensive treatments like fillings or crowns, this is the ideal moment to utilize any remaining benefits.

Schedule Routine Check-ups Before Time Runs Out

Routine check-ups and cleanings are typically covered by insurance, making them an excellent way to use your benefits. Preventive care maintains oral health and catches potential problems before they become more serious—and more expensive.

Centreville Family and Cosmetic Dentistry recommends scheduling your preventive appointments before the year’s end to make the most of your insurance. Not only will this keep your teeth and gums healthy, but it also ensures you won’t miss out on the coverage that you’ve already paid for throughout the year.

Plan Major Treatments Strategically

If you’ve been delaying a major treatment such as a root canal, crown, or even orthodontic work, now might be the best time to schedule it. Dental insurance typically covers a percentage of these treatments, and you’ll want to maximize your remaining benefits before they reset.

If your treatment requires multiple visits, you can also coordinate the timing to spread out the cost. For example, if you start treatment at the end of this year and complete it at the beginning of next year, you can take advantage of both this year’s and next year’s benefits. Centreville Family and Cosmetic Dentistry can help you plan and schedule treatments to make the most of your insurance coverage.

Avoid Last-Minute Rushes

As the end of the year approaches, dental offices often see a surge in appointment requests from patients trying to use their benefits before they expire. To avoid missing out, it’s best to schedule your appointments as soon as possible.

At Centreville Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we encourage patients to plan ahead and schedule their visits early. By doing so, you’ll have more flexibility in choosing a convenient appointment time and ensuring you get the care you need before the new year starts.

With dental insurance plans operating on a use it or lose it basis, now is the time to take full advantage of your benefits. Whether you need preventive care or more extensive treatments, using your insurance before the end of the year can help you save money and keep your smile healthy.

Don’t let your benefits go to waste—contact Centreville Family and Cosmetic Dentistry today to schedule your appointment and make the most of your dental insurance before it’s too late. By understanding your coverage and acting now, you can start the new year with a healthy smile and peace of mind.