Each year, many people unknowingly let their dental benefits lapse, leaving valuable care unused. Most insurance plans follow the “use it or lose it” policy, meaning once the year ends, any remaining dental coverage disappears. If you’ve been delaying that routine cleaning or treatment, now’s the perfect time to use your dental coverage before it resets.
At TranscenDental Smiles, we see it all too often: patients only realize too late that their unused benefits could have covered valuable preventive care. It can save you from future problems and lost cash to act now.
Why Using Your Dental Coverage Matters
Preventive appointments like cleanings and checkups are usually included under most insurance policies. They help detect signs of decay, gum disease, or enamel wear while they are still minor problems. According to the American Dental Association, regular preventive care can reduce the likelihood of having to return to the office in the future for an emergency.
Using your benefits now isn’t just a smart financial move. It’s a way to protect your long-term health. If you’ve been postponing a filling or checkup, scheduling it before your plan renews ensures you’re making full use of what you’ve already paid for.
Understanding Your Dental Insurance Timeline
Most dental insurance plans are calendar-year plans. The moment the new year begins, unused benefits are lost. Reviewing the provisions of your plan tells you what’s still available – from routine check-ups to repair procedures.
If you’re not sure what your dental insurance covers or where you stand with your dental coverage, call your provider or dental practice for assistance. Being familiar with the dental insurance timeline will enable you to plan your appointments strategically and maximize your benefits before they run out.
Smart Ways to Use It Before You Lose It
Give these easy steps a try to maximize your dental insurance coverage:
- Arrange preventive care in advance: Wait until December, when visits fill up fast.
- Cover gaps in care: Complete procedures your dentist has already scheduled.
- Arrange multi-step treatment: Schedule now if you need work that extends into next year.
Small steps, such as making an appointment, can yield big rewards in having a healthy, confident smile.
Your Smile Deserves On-Time Care
Time is limited. Your deadline for your dental plan is closer than you think, and those unused benefits won’t carry over. Getting a grip on your smile now means less stress in the future.
Book your appointment with the dentist in Riverside, CA, before the end of the calendar year. Don’t squander your dental insurance – your wallet and your smile will appreciate it.
