The year is almost over, and your schedule is probably filling up with fun activities. Dental insurance may be the last thing on your mind during this busy time of year, but it’s important to keep your benefits from going to waste. From routine cleanings to root canals, maximize your dental coverage before your benefits expire.

Should I Use or Lose My Dental Benefits?

Most dental insurance plans cover a full calendar year and reset on January 1. You may lose your benefits if you don’t use them in time. 

Many plans include two checkups per year at six-month intervals. Dr. Ruchi Sahota, a spokesperson for the American Dental Association, explains to Today that regular cleanings help remove bacteria that can travel to the bone.

Any issues your dentist uncovers during these visits, such as cavities and gum disease, can be addressed early to avoid costly treatments later on. For this reason, most dental insurance plans fully cover these preventative measures.

Do I Need to Use the Benefits by the End of the Year?

In most cases, dental benefits run out on December 31. Your existing coverage typically won’t roll over into the new year, so act now to take advantage of your current plan. 

When Should I Schedule an Appointment to Use My Remaining Benefits?

With the end of the year quickly approaching, it’s best to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. This is a good time to schedule more expensive and involved dental treatments, especially if you’ve already met your annual deductible.

If you require extensive dental work but are close to hitting your annual maximum, your dentist may offer to divide treatments between the current year and the upcoming year, when your benefits are renewed.

According to MouthHealthy, 100 million Americans skip the dentist each year. Scheduling regular dental visits twice a year can minimize treatment costs and prevent more complex issues from developing.

Staying on top of your routine maintenance and using your dental benefits wisely throughout the year ensures you’ll get the most out of your plan. Whether you only need bi-annual preventative care or more involved procedures, keep in mind that most coverage expires on the last day of the year.

If you have unused dental benefits, contact our office online or call (540) 663-2221 to schedule an appointment!