As the year-end approaches, many of us start thinking about the holidays, family gatherings, and the fresh start of a new year. But there’s one more thing to add to your list—your dental benefits. Whether you have a flexible spending account (FSA), health savings account (HSA), or traditional dental insurance, your benefits may not roll over to the next year. This means if you don’t use them, you lose them.
At Dean Dental Solutions, we believe in proactive dental care that helps you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile while maximizing the benefits you’re entitled to. Here's why you should consider scheduling those essential dental treatments before the end of the year.
Why Dental Benefits Expire
Most dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year, which means your coverage resets every January 1st. If you’ve paid your premiums all year but haven’t taken full advantage of your benefits, you could be leaving money on the table. In many cases, unused benefits do not roll over, meaning you lose access to the services you're already paying for.
For example, your dental insurance may cover preventive services like cleanings and exams 100%, while restorative treatments such as fillings, crowns, or root canals might only be partially covered. If you’ve already met your annual deductible, now is the time to act and save on out-of-pocket costs.
Essential Treatments to Prioritize
To make the most of your dental benefits before year-end, here are some essential treatments you should consider:
1. Routine Cleanings and Exams
Preventive care is the foundation of oral health. Most dental insurance plans cover two cleanings and exams per year, so if you’ve only had one, you’re missing out on a key benefit. Regular cleanings help prevent gum disease, cavities, and other oral health issues, keeping your smile healthy and bright.
2. Cavity Fillings
If your dentist has detected a cavity, it's essential to address it before it worsens. Filling a cavity early prevents more extensive (and costly) treatments down the road. If you've already met your deductible for the year, this is the perfect time to schedule an appointment and avoid paying more out of pocket in the new year.
3. Crowns and Bridges
For patients needing more advanced restorative care, crowns and bridges are often partially covered by dental insurance. These treatments protect and replace damaged teeth, preserving your smile’s function and appearance. If you delay these procedures, you might face higher costs once your deductible resets in January.
4. Periodontal Treatment
Gum health is just as important as tooth health. If you’ve been diagnosed with gum disease, scaling and root planing or other periodontal treatments may be necessary. Most dental plans cover a portion of these treatments, so it’s crucial to complete them before your benefits expire.
5. Invisalign
If you’ve been considering straightening your teeth, Invisalign is a popular, discreet option that many dental insurance plans partially cover. Invisalign aligners are an excellent alternative to traditional braces, allowing you to achieve a straighter smile without the discomfort or appearance of metal braces. Using your benefits now can help reduce the cost of starting treatment, especially if you've met your deductible for the year.
Why Timing Matters with Dental Benefits
Many patients wait until December to schedule their dental treatments, which means appointments fill up quickly. At Dean Dental Solutions, we encourage you to book your appointments as soon as possible to ensure you get the care you need without running out of time.
Additionally, if you need multiple treatments, spacing them out over a few months may help you maximize your coverage. For example, you might be able to use this year’s remaining benefits for part of your treatment and start fresh with new benefits in January for the rest.
The Financial Advantage
One of the best reasons to use your dental benefits before year-end is the potential savings. If you've met your deductible, your insurance may cover a large percentage of the cost for treatments. In contrast, delaying these services until the new year means you'll have to meet your deductible again, increasing your out-of-pocket expenses.
Additionally, if you have an FSA or HSA, these funds can often be used for dental care, but they may expire at the end of the year. By scheduling your treatment now, you can ensure these funds are put to good use rather than forfeited.
Avoiding Future Problems
Delaying dental care doesn’t just cost you money—it can also lead to more serious health issues. For example, untreated cavities can turn into root canals, and gum disease can lead to tooth loss. By taking advantage of your dental benefits now, you’re investing in your future health and avoiding the need for more invasive and costly treatments later.
How Dean Dental Solutions Can Help Maximize Dental Benefits
At Dean Dental Solutions, we’re here to help you navigate your dental benefits and make the most of them. Our "Patient-First" approach means we’re committed to providing personalized and professional care that’s affordable and accessible.
Whether you need a routine cleaning or more extensive treatment, our team of experienced professionals will work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your needs and your budget. Plus, we offer flexible scheduling to accommodate even the busiest lifestyles.
Don’t Wait—Schedule Today!
As the holidays approach, it’s easy to forget about your dental care, but now is the time to act. Don’t let your hard-earned benefits go to waste—schedule your appointment with Dean Dental Solutions today. Our team is ready to help you achieve a healthy, confident smile before the year is over.
Call us at 501-503-3162 or visit our website to book your appointment and start using your dental benefits before they expire!
Leave a Reply