Don’t Let Your Dental Benefits Go to Waste: An End-of-Year Checklist

As the year comes to a close, most of us are far too caught up in holiday preparations to give any thought to our dental insurance benefits. But remember: Unused benefits don’t roll over. That means when the year ends, so does your opportunity to take advantage of them. 

While visiting the dentist might not be your idea of a fun holiday celebration, missing out on benefits — and paying more out of pocket later — isn’t a great way to ring in the new year. In this post, Abir Faraj, DDS, and our team at Novi Family Dentistry in Novi, Michigan, offer a simple checklist to help you maximize your benefits before they expire.

1. Max out routine cleanings

Most dental insurance plans cover two preventive visits per year, yet many of us only wind up using one — or even none. If you haven’t scheduled your maximum number of covered preventive exams, now’s the time to make room in your schedule. 

Regular exams and professional cleanings help your smile look its best while dramatically reducing your risk of bigger problems later on.

2. Have those recommended treatments

Maybe you’ve been putting off a recommended treatment, like a crown or bridge, simply because you haven't had the time. Waiting until the new year could mean new deductibles and higher out-of-pocket costs. 

On the flip side, completing your care before the end of the year ensures you use this year’s coverage while preventing underlying problems from getting worse during the busy holiday season.

3. Plan extensive treatments

If you’re planning more extensive care, like a smile makeover that involves multiple separate treatments, starting now can help spread your costs out over two years’ worth of premiums. 

By starting treatment now and continuing into next year, you wind up straddling two benefit periods, helping you maximize coverage in both years instead of just one. Our team can help you plan.

4. Review your plan for extras

Preventive care, including dental exams and cleanings, forms the cornerstone of most dental plans, but many include extra services too. 

It’s definitely worthwhile to take a little time now to review your plan for benefits you didn’t realize you had, such as fluoride treatments, night guards, or gum care services. Our team can help confirm what your plan does and doesn’t cover.

5. Use your flexible spending account (FSA)

If you have an FSA, you probably know those funds also come with an expiration date. What you may not know is that dental expenses like copays and deductibles are eligible for FSA coverage. 

Some plans may even allow you to use FSA money to cover entire treatments. Reviewing your FSA allowances now can help you make the most of those savings while providing some breathing room in your holiday budget.

6. Don’t forget family members

If you have a family plan, you want to be sure everyone gets the care and treatment they need before those benefits expire and your new plan period begins. This is especially important if next year’s insurance includes higher copays and deductibles. 

Scheduling now helps set the stage for better oral health for all members of your family, while making sure you get the benefits you’re entitled to.

7. Schedule early to secure your spot

Finally, make sure to schedule your visit as soon as possible. Year-end appointments fill up quickly as other patients just like you seek to maximize their benefits. 

Scheduling now ensures you receive treatment before your benefit period ends and gives you one less thing to juggle during the busy holiday season.

Start the new year with a healthy smile

Dental coverage is a valuable feature of many health insurance plans, but the value you receive is based 100% on how much you utilize it. Use this checklist to make sure you get your money’s worth before the year ends.

To schedule your year-end treatments, book an appointment with our team at Novi Family Dentistry today by calling 313-646-7903 or request your spot online.