As the days get cooler and the year winds down, many of us start preparing for the holidays, school routines, and the end of the calendar year. But there’s one important thing that often slips under the radar… your dental insurance benefits!
If you have dental insurance, now is the time to make the most of it before it resets. Here’s why fall is the perfect time to schedule your dental visits and maximize your coverage.
Many Dental Benefits Expire on December 31st
Dental insurance plans often run on a calendar year. That means:
- Any unused preventive visits, cleanings, or annual maximums typically do NOT roll over into the next year.
- If you don’t use it……you lose it!
By the time fall rolls around, many people still haven’t used all their benefits. Scheduling treatment now helps avoid the last-minute holiday rush at the end of the year.
Preventive Care Is Often Fully Covered
Most plans cover two dental cleanings and exams per year at little or no cost to you. (Unfortunately, CDCP only covers 4 units of scaling per year, for many folks, that is one hygiene appointment per year) If you’ve only had one cleaning so far in the year…..or none, then fall is a perfect time to book that second dental cleaning.
Preventive visits help:
- Catch cavities early
- Detects gum issues before they progress
- Keep your smile bright and healthy
Bonus: It’s often cheaper to treat issues before they become bigger problems.
Make the Most of Your Annual Maximum
Your dental plan likely includes an annual maximum—the total amount your insurance will pay for your care in a year. If you need any dental work (like fillings, crowns, or gum treatment), it’s smart to start or finish it before your benefits reset.
Appointments Fill Up Fast
Fall is a busy season, especially as we approach the holidays. Many patients realize late in the year they haven’t used their benefits, and our schedule fills up quickly.
Scheduling now = more availability and less stress for you.
Don’t Forget about Your Family’s Coverage
Back-to-school season is also a great time to schedule:
- Checkups and X-rays for kids and teens
- Orthodontic consultations (Clear Correct)
- Cleanings for the whole family
If you have a family dental plan, make sure everyone gets the care they’re entitled to before benefits expire.
Fall into Good Habits and Savings
Taking care of your smile shouldn’t be a last-minute thought. By scheduling your dental appointments this fall, you’ll:
- Use the benefits you’ve already paid for
- Prevent costly problems
- Start the new year with a healthier smile
Let’s make sure you end the year with a smile and without leaving any of your dental benefits behind!