Final Call: Use Your Dental Insurance Benefits Now or Pay Later!

As the year draws to a close, it’s crunch time for those with dental insurance. If you haven’t used your benefits yet, you’re at risk of losing them when the clock strikes midnight on December 31st. Many dental insurance plans operate on a “use it or lose it” basis, which means that any unused benefits won’t carry over into the new year. Don’t let those hard-earned benefits slip away—now is the perfect time to schedule a dental visit and make the most of what you’ve paid for. 

Here’s why it’s important and how to take action before it’s too late.

How Dental Insurance Works: A Quick Recap

Most dental insurance plans offer a set amount of coverage for preventive and restorative services each year. Here’s a breakdown of what this means:

• Annual Maximum: Most plans set a yearly maximum, which is the total amount they’ll pay for your dental care within the calendar year. If you don’t use it, you lose it!
• Preventive Services: Cleanings, exams, and X-rays are usually covered 100%. These services are key to catching potential problems early, saving you money in the long run.
• Restorative Services: Treatments like fillings, crowns, and root canals are often covered partially. Scheduling these services before year-end helps reduce out-of-pocket costs.

The Clock Is Ticking: Why You Should Act Now

When it comes to dental insurance, timing is everything. Here are some reasons to prioritize a visit to your dentist before December 31st:

1. Unused Benefits Don’t Roll Over

• Most dental plans reset on January 1st, which means any unused benefits will vanish.
• Take advantage of what’s left this year to avoid paying full price for dental care in 2025.
• Scheduling an appointment now can help you use the benefits you’ve already paid for.

2. Maximize Your Premium Payments

• You’ve paid for your insurance all year—don’t let that money go to waste.
• Using your benefits for preventive care is essentially getting services at no extra cost.
• Preventive visits can help catch problems early, preventing more expensive treatments later.

3. Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

• Dentists’ schedules fill up fast in November and December as many patients rush to use their benefits.
• Booking early ensures you get the appointment time that’s convenient for you.
• Waiting until January could mean starting the year with out-of-pocket costs you could have avoided.

Smart Strategies to Make the Most of Your Benefits

Want to maximize what your dental plan covers before the year ends? Here’s a game plan to help you:

1. Schedule a Routine Check-Up or Cleaning

• Preventive care like cleanings, exams, and X-rays is often fully covered.
• These visits can uncover minor issues before they turn into costly problems.
• Book a cleaning now to freshen up your smile for the holiday season.

2. Complete Any Delayed Treatments

• If you’ve been putting off fillings, crowns, or other treatments, now’s the time.
• Using this year’s benefits can save you money, especially if you’ve met your deductible.
• Completing these treatments now means a healthier start to the new year.

3. Consider Splitting Treatments Between Years

• If you need extensive work, talk to your dentist about splitting the treatment over two years.
• This allows you to use the remainder of this year’s benefits and start fresh with next year’s coverage.
• It’s a smart way to lower your out-of-pocket expenses over time.

What Happens If You Don’t Use Your Benefits?

Ignoring your dental benefits can have consequences, both financially and for your health:

• Higher Out-of-Pocket Costs: Skipping care now may lead to more expensive problems later.
• Missed Opportunities for Prevention: Delaying dental visits increases the risk of developing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
• Insurance Premiums Gone to Waste: Paying for insurance without using it is like buying a gym membership and never going—don’t let that money go down the drain.

Don’t Wait—Schedule Your Appointment Today!

The year is quickly wrapping up, and time is running out to take full advantage of your dental insurance benefits. Whether you need a routine check-up, cleaning, or treatment, Lakeshore Dental Studio is here to help. Our team is ready to assist you in making the most of your coverage before it’s too late.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and secure a spot before our calendar fills up. Don’t miss this chance to maximize your benefits—book now!