If you’re holding onto unused dental benefits, now is the time to act! Many dental insurance plans come with a ‘Use It or Lose It’ policy, meaning that any benefits left unused by year’s end will disappear. Unlike other types of insurance, most dental plans operate on an annual cycle, with benefits expiring on December 31.

This is an opportunity to use benefits you’ve already paid for and start the new year with a healthy, radiant smile. In this blog, we’ll break down how this policy works, what services to prioritize, and tips to make the most of your benefits before the clock strikes midnight on December 31.

How Does ‘Use It or Lose It’ Policy Work In Dental Insurance?

When it comes to dental insurance, each year brings a new annual maximum — the highest dollar amount the plan will cover within that year. But there’s a catch: any unused benefits don’t roll over into the new year. This “use it or lose it” approach is common in dental insurance, meaning if you haven’t taken advantage of your plan’s benefits, you risk losing them completely.

Annual Maximums: Most plans cap the amount they cover each year. If you’re not using those funds, it’s money you’re leaving on the table.
End-of-Year Deadlines: December 31 marks the cutoff for using benefits under most plans. Once that date passes, unused benefits disappear.
No Roll-Over Policy: Since most plans reset each January, rolling unused benefits into the next year isn’t an option. Using your benefits by year’s end is crucial to avoid missing out.

Common Services To Utilize Before Year-End

If you’re unsure where to start, here are some services you may want to book before year-end:

Preventive Care: Routine cleanings and exams are typically covered by insurance and help keep your oral health in check. These appointments are essential to catch potential problems early.
Small Treatments: Fillings or sealants are small fixes that can prevent more significant issues down the line. Scheduling these before the year’s end could save you from dealing with more extensive and costly treatments later.
Major Treatments: Need a crown or bridge? Many major treatments can be split across appointments, allowing you to start a procedure before December 31 and finish it in the new year, using two sets of benefits.

Benefits of Using Your Dental Insurance To The Fullest

Taking full advantage of your insurance is more than just a financial choice; it’s a health investment. Here’s why using your benefits matters:

Save Money: You’ve paid for these benefits, so maximizing them helps you get the best value out of your plan.
Prevent Bigger Problems: By addressing minor issues early, you prevent more extensive and costlier problems that could arise if left untreated.
Support Your Overall Health: Oral health is connected to overall health. Regular dental care can reduce the risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes, making your visits even more beneficial.

Tips for Scheduling Last-Minute Appointments

With the year winding down, scheduling an appointment with our dentist can get tight. Here are some tips for booking those last-minute appointments:

Reach Out Early: Dental offices often see a surge in appointments toward the end of the year, so call as soon as possible to secure a spot.
Prioritize Treatments: Consider your most pressing dental needs and prioritize those, especially if you’re near your annual maximum.
Get Creative with Benefits: If you have a major procedure in mind, ask our dentist about breaking it up to use this year’s benefits for the initial work and next year’s for the follow-up.

Don’t Let Your Dental Benefits Go to Waste!

As the year wraps up, don’t let your dental benefits go unused. Schedule any remaining treatments and make the most of what you’ve already paid for. Not only will it save you money, but it’ll also keep your smile in top shape going into the new year.

Sierra Smiles is here to help you fully understand your dental insurance options. Our qualified dentist will ensure that you maximize your coverage before it expires. Take action now, and you’ll start 2025 with the confidence of knowing you’ve prioritized your health and wallet.

The Clock Is Ticking! Use Your Dental Insurance Before It’s Gone