Use It or Lose It: Reasons Not to Miss Your Dental Coverage This Year

Did you know you might be leaving money on the table by not using your dental coverage before the year ends? Many dental plans operate on a calendar year, meaning any unused benefits expire when the new year begins.

If you don’t schedule appointments now, you may lose the opportunity to use your coverage. Don’t let your benefits go to waste—take advantage of them before time runs out!

Understanding Your Dental Coverage: What Does It Include?

Dental plans typically cover preventive care, such as exams, cleanings, and X-rays, often at no extra cost. Many plans also include coverage for fillings, root canals, crowns, and more complex procedures. It’s important to understand the annual maximum benefit, which caps how much your insurance will pay each year.

If you don’t reach the maximum, you’re leaving money on the table. Routine visits and cleanings are usually covered 100%, making them an easy way to maximize your benefits without extra costs.

Benefits of Using Your Dental Coverage

• Preventive Health: Regular dental visits can prevent serious health issues, like gum disease, which is linked to heart disease, diabetes, and more.
• Cost Savings: Routine treatments, like fillings or cleanings, are more affordable with insurance. Without it, out-of-pocket costs can add up quickly.
• Avoiding Future Complications: Ignoring dental problems today could lead to expensive procedures later. Small issues, like cavities, can turn into root canals if untreated, costing you more.

By using your benefits now, you protect your health and your wallet in the long run.

The Risks of Not Using Your Dental Coverage

• Lost Benefits: Many dental plans operate on a “use it or lose it” basis, meaning unused benefits don’t roll over into the next year.
• Potential for Increased Costs: Delaying dental care can worsen problems, leading to more expensive treatments down the road.
• Accruing Deductibles and Co-pays: If you wait until next year, your deductible might reset, and new co-pays could apply. That means paying more for services you could’ve had covered at a lower cost.

Don’t miss out on what you’ve already paid for through your premiums.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Dental Coverage

• Schedule Appointments Early: Book your dental visits before the year ends. It’s the best way to ensure you use your benefits.
• Use Preventive Services: Make sure you take full advantage of free services like cleanings, exams, and screenings that are often covered 100%.
• Review Benefits & Coverage: Check your plan to see what treatments are covered and how much of your benefits remain. You may have unused funds available for treatments.

By planning ahead, you can make the most of your dental coverage without worrying about wasting benefits.

How to Plan for the Upcoming Year?

Before the new year starts, review your dental plan to ensure you are covered for any anticipated treatments. If you need additional benefits or upgrades, now is the time to explore your options.

Having a solid plan in place for next year can ensure that your dental health stays on track without any unexpected costs.

Don’t Miss Out on Your Dental Benefits!

At The Smile Shapers, we believe in helping you maintain your best smile. Use your dental benefits before the year ends to protect your health and save money. Book an appointment today and make sure you don’t miss out on the coverage you deserve!