At the end of the year, everyone is busy with holidays and year-end work, but you might be forgetting one important thing behind – your dental benefits. If you are covered by dental insurance, chances are that you already pay for benefits that simply roll over at the end of the year. The “use it or lose it” rule states that unused dental benefits don’t carry over to the next year.

It’s not about conserving dollars; it’s about keeping your smile healthy. Unused benefits could mean lost opportunities for preventive services, and those will prevent you from having to expend money on expensive procedures later on.

Why Does ‘Use It or Lose It’ Matter?

Most dental plans are annual, with benefits reissued at the end of each year. If you fail to utilize your dental benefit completely, you lose those benefits. It’s a simple rule that ensures patients get the care they’ve paid for, but means you must act rapidly or lose out.

If you’ve not booked your usual checkup or cleaning sessions yet, do it now. Booking it late in the year can make you rush to get an appointment as dental clinics fill up. But more is at stake than just getting an appointment. Let’s talk about how using your dental benefits can impact your overall oral health and wallet.

The Link Between Dental Benefits and Preventive Care

Dental hygiene can sometimes be considered optional for the majority of people, especially when all is well in the mouth. This fails to consider the importance of regular preventive maintenance. Checkups and regular cleaning are crucial to identify issues early enough, prior to them becoming costly procedures.

Your dental plan is designed to cover preventive appointments, such as cleanings, exams, and X-rays, that are usually fully covered or have a low copayment. Preventive appointments maintain your teeth and gums, which prevents you from having problems like cavities, gum disease, and other conditions that will be more costly in the long run.

The Bottom Line: The more you use your benefits for maintenance care, the less likely you are to need painful and expensive treatments down the road. Prevention really is the best way to save money and keep your smile in its best possible form.

Dental Insurance Timeline and How It Affects Your Wallet

Most people are unaware that their dental benefits expire annually. If you have been putting off cleanings and treatments, those benefits will be gone like magic. This is where planning can help you maximize your dental benefits.

If you have a brief dental insurance window, you need to schedule your care now. You might consider scheduling an exam or a cleaning prior to the end of the year so you can make sure you’re using your benefits before they renew. Delaying care will sound good, but avoiding care can lead to bigger issues that cost significantly more than one checkup.

Not taking advantage of your dental benefits within the time limit is like leaving money on the table. A recent survey by the National Association of Dental Plans indicates that nearly 40% of dental insurance policyholders do not take advantage of all their annual benefits. This is a massive waste, considering the investment you’ve already put into your dental coverage.

Maximize Your Dental Insurance Benefits Before They Expire

The best way to avoid the “use it or lose it” trap is through preparation. Here is some advice on how to get the most out of your dental insurance:

• Schedule Preventive Visits Early: Dental offices fill up as the year ends. Arrange your cleanings and exams as soon as possible so that you can secure an appointment before the benefits expire.
• Check Your Coverage: Go ahead and take a glance at your dental coverage and see what’s included. There are usually two cleanings per year, so you may be able to squeeze in an extra visit. Don’t let it go to waste.
• Consider Larger Treatment: If you have ongoing dental requirements, for example, fillings or crowns, it might be worth starting a treatment now. Many patients use their benefits strategically to start treatments at or around year-end and finish in the subsequent year, paying partially for the procedure with each year’s benefits.

By scheduling a cleaning or exam toward the end of the year, you’re not just being fiscally responsible – you’re banking on your future health. And when it comes to your smile, the time is always now.

Make your appointment today at Cheney Dental Care and take advantage of your dental benefits before they’re lost!