Most people are shocked to discover that most dental insurance policies do not roll over unused benefits to the following year. The rule is straightforward: use or lose it. When the calendar year runs out, any existing coverage generally fades away along with your unused benefits for exams or treatments.

If you’ve ever asked yourself whether your dental benefits transfer, the truth can be puzzling. Understanding how your plan works helps you plan the treatment smartly and prevents lost opportunities for care.

Knowing the “Use It or Lose It” Rule

Most dental insurance policies are on an annual basis, and they renew every January. Your deductible, your annual maximum, and what is covered all begin anew. Any unused benefits before the reset that were not used are lost forever.

It’s a system that’s meant to encourage preventive and restorative care before small problems grow into large ones. The American Dental Association says routine preventive visits can reduce the need for future expensive treatment, which saves your smile and your money.

However, research indicates that over half of insured Americans don’t avail themselves fully of their annual dental coverage. That’s money uncollected and care unprovided.

How Dental Insurance Works Within the Year

Your dental plan enables you to have preventive and restorative care at a lower cost, based on the parameters of your dental plan. Most plans will cover two exams annually, along with partial coverage of restorative procedures.

It’s here where timing is of the essence. Having your dental insurance timeline in mind tells you so. Having paid your deductible or approximating your annual maximum, having work done before the year ends is budget-wise. Waiting could mean starting over in January and paying more out-of-pocket for the same procedure.

Why It Pays to Stay Ahead

It’s not just about saving money to maintain your benefits. It’s also about protecting your oral and overall health. On-time restorative oral care stops potential issues from causing tooth loss in the future.

If you’ve been waiting, consider your plan now. You may have coverage still left to spend before your benefits run out. Our dental care team can help review your dental insurance plan, describe your remaining coverage, and schedule appointments before the end-of-year rush.

Don’t Wait – Your Benefits Won’t Wait Either

Dental coverage is meant to keep you healthy all year round and not go to waste. Once they have expired, they’re gone, and your next opportunity to utilize them may be more expensive.

Take care of your dental health. Schedule your appointment at Implants. Life by the end of the year, and make sure that you take advantage of your available coverage. Remember, your smile deserves care that doesn’t wait, and your benefits are there to help you along the way.