If you have dental insurance, you may have noticed that your benefits usually expire at the end of the year. Many people miss out on fully using these benefits simply because they don’t realize they have expired or haven’t planned their dental care. At Storts Family Dentistry, we want to help you understand why dental benefits expire at year-end and how to make the most of them before they’re gone.
How Dental Insurance Works
Dental insurance typically operates annually, meaning you receive a set amount of coverage that resets each year. Most plans include an “annual maximum” — the maximum dollar amount your insurance company will pay for your dental care during a given year. This annual maximum usually doesn’t carry over to the next year if it goes unused, so scheduling necessary treatments within the calendar year is essential.
In addition to the annual maximum, many dental plans include coverage for preventive care, such as cleanings, exams, and X-rays, often covered fully or with a small copayment. Taking advantage of these services each year helps maintain a healthy smile while maximizing your insurance benefits.
Why Benefits Expire Each Year
Benefits expire at the end of the year because of how dental insurance companies structure their policies. Dental insurance is designed to encourage preventive care and help you manage the cost of routine dental work. By setting a yearly cycle, insurance companies encourage patients to use their benefits regularly, ensuring that small issues don’t turn into larger problems that could require more expensive treatment.
The “use it or lose it” rule often helps insurance companies keep costs predictable. When benefits reset each year, it ensures that patients can only use a specific amount annually, which helps insurance providers manage their finances while offering consistent support to their customers.
Using Your Benefits Wisely
When dental benefits go unused, you leave money on the table. Even if your dental health is in great shape, preventive care, like cleanings and exams, is essential for maintaining oral health. Most plans typically cover these routine visits and help you avoid more extensive treatments.
If your dentist has recommended treatments like fillings, crowns, or other restorative work, taking care of these before the year ends can be a smart financial move. By using your benefits within the annual limit, you’re making the most of what you’ve already paid for through your dental insurance.
Planning for Major Treatments
You can split treatments across two benefit years if you need more extensive dental work, such as a dental crown or root canal, and are close to reaching your annual maximum. By scheduling part of the treatment before the end of the current year and finishing it at the beginning of the next, you can maximize two years of benefits for the same treatment. This strategy can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs for larger procedures.
Contact Us to Help You Make the Most of Your Benefits
Understanding why dental benefits expire at year-end can help you be proactive about your dental health and ensure you get the most from your insurance. At Storts Family Dentistry, we’re here to help you navigate your benefits, plan your treatments, and make informed decisions about your care. If you have questions about your coverage or need to schedule an appointment, contact us today. We’re happy to work with you to create a treatment plan that helps you maximize your benefits and keep your smile healthy all year.