Your Handbook for ‘Use It or Lose It’ Dental Insurance Benefits

Dental insurance plans often operate on a “Use It or Lose It” basis, meaning that benefits reset at the end of the year if unused. Many people miss the chance to take advantage of their coverage, letting valuable benefits slip away.

With the year coming to a close, now is the time to act. Making the most of dental benefits before they expire can lead to better oral health and significant savings, helping you enter the new year with a healthier, brighter smile.

What Does ‘Use It or Lose It’ Mean for Dental Insurance?

Dental insurance typically provides a set amount of coverage each year, known as an annual maximum. This limit covers a variety of treatments, from routine exams and cleanings to minor procedures like fillings.

However, if you don’t use all of your yearly benefits, they don’t carry over to the next year — they’re lost. This “Use It or Lose It” rule means it’s wise to take advantage of your benefits before they reset. Understanding this can help you maximize your insurance and avoid paying out of pocket for future dental needs.

Why You Should Care: The Risk of Losing Benefits

Not using your dental benefits can lead to missed savings and higher costs later. Routine checkups and cleanings are often fully covered by insurance, saving you out-of-pocket costs on basic care.

Ignoring these benefits could mean more significant dental issues later, which might be more expensive. Preventive care catches problems early, helping you avoid treatments that can become costly if left untreated. So, using your insurance benefits before the year ends not only keeps your dental health in check but also saves you money in the long run.

Steps to Maximize Your Dental Benefits Before They Expire

Step 1: Schedule Your Annual Checkup and Cleanings
Routine checkups and cleanings are essential for dental health and are often fully covered by insurance. These visits, typically scheduled twice a year, are important for preventing bigger issues down the line. Booking now helps you use your benefits and ensure a fresh start for next year.

Step 2: Take Care of Preventive Treatments
Preventive treatments, like fluoride applications, sealants, and X-rays, are often included in dental plans. These treatments help protect against decay and detect early issues. Scheduling these services now ensures that you make the most of your coverage.

Step 3: Address Any Outstanding Dental Work
If you have pending treatments such as fillings or crowns, it’s time to complete them. Many insurance plans cover part of these essential procedures, so acting now can help avoid out-of-pocket expenses next year.

Step 4: Review Coverage for Major Procedures
For larger procedures, like root canals, crowns, or orthodontic work, insurance often covers a portion but only up to a certain limit. Considering these treatments now could maximize your benefits and save money.

Step 5: Check for Discounts or Additional Benefits
Some plans offer discounts on extra services like teeth whitening, braces, or even vision care. Check for these added perks and take advantage before they expire, as they can help enhance your overall wellness.

How to Maximize Your Benefits with Coordination?

Reach out to your dental insurance provider to review your eligibility and any remaining benefits for the year. Discuss your plan’s specifics and any deadlines with your dentist. This coordination allows your provider to prioritize any remaining treatments that fit within your yearly limits.

Your dentist’s office can also help identify any eligible procedures that maximize your coverage, ensuring you get the most from your plan.

What to Do if You Can’t Use All of Your Benefits?

If you can’t use all your benefits by year-end, you still have options. Consider scheduling treatments for early next year to get a head start on new benefits.

Some dental offices allow patients to “prepay” for treatments in advance. This can help you plan for upcoming procedures and lock in current prices. Alternatively, you can focus on smaller treatments now and reserve more complex work for the upcoming benefit cycle.

Don’t Wait, Secure Your Dental Health with Arbor Dental Group

Don’t let your hard-earned benefits go to waste. Call Arbor Dental Group today to schedule an appointment and maximize your dental coverage before the end of the year.