Many of us find ourselves hurrying to complete job assignments, make plans for the upcoming year, and finish Christmas shopping as the end of the year draws near. Making the most of your dental insurance coverage is one more thing you might want to focus on before the clock strikes midnight on December 31st.

Most dental plans have a ‘use it or lose it’ provision, which means that if you don’t utilize your hard-earned benefits before the end of the year, they might disappear. Keep it from happening! This guide will help you make the most of your dental coverage and ensure that you don’t miss out on necessary dental treatment.

Why Your Dental Benefits Don’t Roll Over?

Most dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year basis, which means your annual benefits are reset on January 1st. If you haven’t used up your yearly coverage allowance, any remaining funds are lost for good.

Unlike other types of insurance, unused dental benefits typically do not roll over into the next year. This means if you’re paying for dental insurance, you’re essentially leaving money on the table if you don’t use your coverage.

1. Schedule Preventive Care Before It’s Too Late

Routine Exams and Cleanings – Most insurance plans cover two exams and cleanings per year, but many people miss out on these essential appointments. Preventive visits are key to catching problems early and keeping your teeth healthy, and best of all—they’re usually covered in full!
X-Rays and Basic Screenings – Schedule X-rays and other screenings covered under your preventive care benefits before the year ends to maintain good dental health.

2. Finish Any Incomplete Treatments

Crowns, Fillings, and Root Canals – If you’ve started a treatment but haven’t finished, completing it before the end of the year can help you avoid tapping into next year’s coverage. Dental procedures like crowns and root canals may take multiple visits, so now is the time to book any remaining appointments.
Avoid Higher Costs Next Year – Dental issues left untreated often worsen, leading to more expensive treatments down the line. Using this year’s benefits to complete treatments can prevent higher out-of-pocket expenses.

3. Consider Elective Treatments

Teeth Whitening or Veneers – While cosmetic treatments may not always be covered, some elective or restorative treatments (like veneers) may receive partial coverage under certain plans. If you’ve been thinking about enhancing your smile, consider scheduling these procedures now.
Orthodontic Evaluations – Some plans include orthodontic benefits, so if you or a family member could benefit from braces or aligners, an initial consultation before the year ends could be a wise choice.

4. Ask Our Dentist About Treatment Plans and Insurance Benefits

Get Clarity on Your Coverage—Contact our dental office to find out what services are covered under your current plan. They can help clarify what procedures are eligible for insurance benefits and what will count toward your annual maximum.
Plan Ahead – If there are multiple procedures you need, ask about breaking them into stages. You can split some treatments between this year’s coverage and next year’s, allowing you to maximize benefits.

5. Avoid The End-of-Year Rush

Book Early – Many people realize at the last minute that they haven’t used their benefits, so dental offices tend to fill up quickly in December. To ensure you get an appointment, schedule it as soon as possible.
Secure Your Spot – Booking now gives you a better chance of getting convenient appointment times and completing any necessary treatments.

6. Plan for Upcoming Changes In Coverage

Insurance Changes in the New Year – Sometimes, dental plans are modified at the start of the year, affecting coverage and premiums. Using your benefits now could help you avoid potential increases in costs or changes in coverage.
Get Ahead of Policy Changes – Stay informed about any potential changes in your insurance for the coming year. If your current plan covers a treatment, but you’re unsure if next year’s will, it’s wise to act now.

Don’t Let Your Dental Benefits Slip Away!

The clock is ticking, but there’s still time to make the most of your dental insurance before it resets. With the “use it or lose it” policy, you’ll lose any unused benefits for preventive care or elective treatments once the year ends. Your dental coverage can help keep your teeth in top shape if you use it wisely.

Whether you need to schedule overdue cleanings or complete unfinished treatments, contacting our dentist now can save you money and set you up for a healthier smile in the new year.

Take Action Today!

Call Carstairs Dental for guidance if you need assistance planning your treatments or understanding the benefits left on your plan. We will help you understand your options and make a personalized plan to maximize your coverage.

Don’t let your benefits go to waste—start planning your dental care today and ring in the new year with a confident, healthy smile!