Use Your Dental Insurance Before You Lose Your 2024 Benefits!

As the Year Ends, Don’t Let Your Dental Benefits Go to Waste

The end of the year is fast approaching, and with it comes a deadline for many people who have dental insurance. Most dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year basis, which means your benefits will reset on January 1, 2025. If you haven’t made full use of your 2024 benefits yet, now is the perfect time to schedule any necessary treatments before those benefits expire.

Why You Should Maximize Your Dental Insurance Benefits

Many insurance plans come with annual limits, deductibles, and coverage percentages for preventive, basic, and major services. If you haven’t reached your annual limit or taken advantage of your covered cleanings, exams, or treatments, you’re leaving valuable benefits on the table. Here’s why that matters:

• You’ve Already Paid for It - Most dental plans are structured with monthly premiums or payments, so you’ve been paying into your dental insurance all year. By using your benefits, you’re maximizing the value of what you’ve already invested in.
• Dental Health Affects Overall Health - Dental health isn’t just about your teeth. Issues like gum disease, infections, and tooth decay can affect other areas of your health, increasing risks for heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems. Preventive care and early treatment can save you from more significant health issues and higher expenses down the line.
• Catch Problems Early - Preventive exams and cleanings are usually covered at a high percentage (often 100%) under most plans. Regular visits help catch issues early before they require more intensive and costly treatments, saving you both pain and money in the long run.

Here’s How to Make the Most of Your 2024 Dental Benefits

If you’re unsure of where to start, here are some tips to help you maximize your remaining benefits:

• Schedule Your Check-Up and Cleaning - Most dental insurance plans cover two cleanings and exams each year, but if you haven’t used both visits yet, now is the time to book! Regular cleanings help maintain your oral health and allow your dentist to detect any early signs of potential issues.
• Take Advantage of Covered Treatments - Many insurance plans cover a percentage of basic services like fillings, root canals, and crowns. If you have a treatment that’s been delayed or if your dentist has identified a condition that requires attention, don’t put it off until next year.
• Consider Any Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) - If you have a Flexible Spending Account through your employer, it can often be used to pay for dental treatments. FSAs are typically “use-it-or-lose-it” accounts that also reset at the end of the year. Check your FSA balance to see if you have funds that could cover any remaining dental needs before they expire.
• Get Ahead of Next Year’s Deductible - Many insurance plans come with a deductible that must be met before coverage kicks in. If you’ve already met your 2024 deductible, consider finishing any necessary treatments this year, so you won’t have to pay toward a new deductible in 2025.
• Maximize Your Annual Benefit Cap - Most dental insurance plans have an annual maximum, which is the highest amount they’ll pay out in benefits each year. If you’re close to hitting this limit, prioritize any high-cost treatments you need before the year ends.

Don’t Delay – Book Your Appointment Today!

At Meridian Dental, Dentist in Irving, we’re here to help you make the most of your dental insurance benefits. Our friendly team can review your insurance plan with you, explain your options, and help you create a treatment plan that fits your needs. We understand that the end of the year can be busy, but taking the time to prioritize your dental health now can pay off in the long term.

If you’re due for a cleaning, need a treatment, or just want to use up your insurance benefits before they expire, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Don’t let your 2024 benefits go unused – invest in your oral health and start the new year with a bright, healthy smile!