End-of-Year Dental Insurance Tips to Save Money

As the year comes to a close, many patients are surprised to learn that their dental insurance benefits don’t roll over into the new year. If you haven’t used them, you may lose them. The end of the year is one of the best times to take advantage of your remaining dental benefits and invest in your oral health while saving money. Here are some smart end-of-year dental insurance tips to help you make the most of your coverage before it resets.

Understand Your Annual Maximum

Most dental insurance plans have an annual maximum - the total amount your insurance will pay toward your dental care each year. Once the calendar year ends, any unused portion of that maximum is lost. Scheduling needed treatments before December 31 helps ensure you’re not leaving money on the table.

Use Your Remaining Preventive Care Benefits

Preventive services such as cleanings, exams, and X-rays are often covered at 100% by dental insurance. If you haven’t had your routine visits this year, now is the perfect time to schedule them. Staying up to date with preventive care not only protects your smile but can also help catch small issues early - before they turn into more costly problems.

Take Advantage of Your Deductible

Many insurance plans require you to meet an annual deductible before coverage applies. If you’ve already met your deductible earlier in the year, now is a great time to complete additional treatment, since insurance will typically cover a higher percentage of the cost. If you wait until January, your deductible will reset, meaning you may pay more out of pocket.

Don’t Delay Recommended Treatment

If your dentist has recommended treatment such as fillings, crowns, or periodontal care, postponing it could cost you more in the long run. Dental issues rarely improve on their own, and delaying care may lead to more complex and expensive procedures later. Completing treatment before your benefits reset can significantly reduce your overall costs.

Consider Using FSA or HSA Funds

If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), those funds often expire at the end of the year or shortly thereafter. Using FSA dollars for dental care before they expire is another smart way to save money. Health Savings Account (HSA) funds typically roll over, but they can still be a tax-efficient way to pay for dental treatment.

Schedule Early - Appointments Fill Fast

The end of the year is one of the busiest times for dental offices. Waiting too long may make it harder to find an appointment before your benefits expire. Scheduling early gives you the best chance to complete treatment, maximize your insurance, and avoid the holiday rush.

Finish the Year With a Healthy Smile

Your dental insurance is a valuable benefit, but it’s only useful if you take advantage of it. By understanding your coverage, scheduling preventive care, and completing recommended treatment before the end of the year, you can protect your oral health while saving money. A little planning now can make a big difference for both your smile and your wallet.

Contact Tomenko Family Dentistry to schedule your end-of-year dental exam and finish the year with a healthy smile. Visit our office in Sliver Spring, Maryland, or call (301) 439-8333 to get started today.