As the holiday season approaches, most people are focused on family gatherings, gift shopping, and festive traditions. But there’s one important thing many overlook until it’s too late: their dental insurance benefits. If you have unused coverage, the year-end is the perfect time to take advantage of it before it expires.
At Arden Mill Family Dentistry, your trusted dentist in the local community, we’re here to help you get the most value from the benefits you’ve already paid for—whether you need preventive care, have been postponing recommended treatment, or suddenly need emergency dental care. Taking care of your dental needs now can also help you avoid paying a new deductible when your insurance resets in the new year.
Here’s a simple guide to understanding your coverage and maximizing your savings before year-end.
A Simple Guide to Getting the Most From Your Benefits
Most dental insurance plans follow a 100–80–50 coverage model, which can help you understand what’s fully or partially covered:
- 100% for preventive care — cleanings, exams, and routine X-rays
- 80% for basic treatments — fillings and simple extractions
- 50% for major procedures — crowns, bridges, dentures, and similar restorative work
Knowing this breakdown makes it easier to prioritize your dental needs, schedule pending treatment, and avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
Use Your Benefits Before They Expire (Use it or Lose it )
Your dental insurance plan includes an annual maximum—the total amount your insurance will contribute toward your treatment each year. Because these benefits don’t roll over, any unused coverage simply disappears at year-end. If you’ve already completed your routine cleanings but still haven’t reached your annual max, this is the perfect time to schedule any recommended treatment while coverage is still available.
Take Advantage of Your Met Deductible
Most dental plans also come with a yearly deductible that must be met before insurance begins paying for treatment. If you’ve already met your deductible for the year, completing any additional procedures now can save you significantly—because once the new year starts, your deductible resets. Getting treatment before that happens means more of your care is covered and less comes out of your pocket.
Take care of treatment you’ve been delaying
If you’ve been putting off a crown, filling, night guard, or any recommended treatment, year-end benefits make this the ideal time to get it done. Completing necessary care now can:
- Most Insurances have $1500 – $2000 Annual max(for illustration purposes). That equates to 2 preventative visits + around 3 crowns. Taking advantage of your benefits that are about to expire can help you save lots of out of pocket expense.
- Prevent small issues from turning into bigger—and more expensive—problems
- Reduce ongoing pain or discomfort
- Allow you to complete treatment within this year’s insurance budget instead of starting fresh next year
Taking action sooner not only protects your smile but also helps you make smarter use of your benefits.
Schedule your hygiene visit before the calendar fills up
Fall and winter are the busiest seasons for dental offices. Many patients rush to use their benefits before they expire, and appointments fill quickly. Booking early helps you:
- Secure a time that fits your schedule
- Take full advantage of your 100% covered preventive care
- Stay consistent with your oral health goals
A simple cleaning now can prevent more complicated issues later.
Make the most of your HSA or FSA Funds
If you have an HSA or FSA, dental care is often an approved—and smart—use of those tax-free dollars. Keep in mind:
- FSA funds may expire at year-end or offer only limited rollover
- HSAs can help reduce your out-of-pocket cost for recommended treatment
- Using these funds now ensures you maximize every dollar you’ve set aside
It’s a great opportunity to combine insurance benefits and tax savings for more affordable care.
Get a personalized insurance review from your local and trusted friends at Arden Mill Family Dentistry
Dental insurance can be confusing, but you don’t have to sort through it alone. Our team at Arden Mill Family Dentistry is happy to:
- Review your remaining benefits
- Estimate your treatment costs and coverage
- Help you prioritize care before your benefits expire
A quick consultation ensures you’re making the most informed and cost-effective decisions for your oral health.
Final thoughts: Make your benefits work for you
Your dental insurance is a valuable investment in your health—and year-end is approaching fast. Taking action now can save you money, prevent avoidable issues, and set you up for a healthier start to 2025.
If you’re unsure where to begin, Arden Mill Family Dentistry is here to help. Call us at 803-650-6424 today or visit our website at ardenmillfamilydentistry.com to provide you with a personalized benefits review and help you take advantage of your maximum benefits.