Don't Let Your Dental Benefits Disappear: A Guide to Using Them Before the New Year

Written by Melissa Brulotte LD 

September 18, 2025 

Did you know that most dental insurance benefits reset on January 1st? If you don't use them, you could be leaving money on the table. We want to help you make the most of your plan and get the care you deserve before your benefits expire. 

Understand Your Annual Maximum:  

Each insurance plan sets a maximum amount it will pay for your dental care. This is a "use-it-or-lose-it" amount, and it doesn't roll over to the following year. This is known as the Annual Maximum. If you don’t use these benefits up by the end of the year, they disappear! This means the insurance company kept all the money, and you got zero benefit. 

What to Schedule: 

Routine check-ups and cleanings: Did you know that 22% of Americans with dental insurance fail to visit their dentist for routine check-ups and cleanings? Failing to attend these routine appointments leads to more out of pocket expenses over time, but most plans cover cleanings at or near 100%. Use your benefits now and keep your smile healthy in the most affordable way! If you haven't had two cleanings this year, now is the time to schedule the second one.  

*Keep in mind that if it has been less than 6 months since your last cleaning, your plan will not cover a second cleaning this year.  

Treatments for known issues: If you've been putting off dentures, a filling, crown, or other restorative work, using your remaining benefits now can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost.  

Addressing lingering issues: Have you been thinking about getting an implant or a new set of dentures? Are there issues you have been putting off until the time is right? Use your benefits to get the ball rolling now. Getting on the schedule now will ensure you can get your treatment finished this year. 

The Smart Strategy: Splitting Treatment Between Years 

For some patients, a comprehensive treatment plan—like a new set of dentures, series of crowns, implants, or other major work—can exceed their annual maximum. If this applies to you, you're in luck! You can often split your treatment between this year and next year to get the most out of your insurance. 

Here's how it works: 

• This year: Use your remaining annual maximum to complete the first half of your treatment. This could involve getting an initial crown prepped, a root canal, or the first stage of an implant procedure. 

• Next year: Once your benefits reset on January 1st, you can use your new annual maximum and deductible to cover the rest of your treatment. 

This strategy effectively doubles the amount of insurance money you can apply toward your treatment, significantly reducing your out-of-pocket costs. Our team is expert at helping patients create a phased treatment plan that aligns with their insurance benefits. 

Are you ready to maximize your dental benefits? Call us today at to schedule an appointment. Our team can also help you understand your remaining benefits and plan your treatment accordingly. Let's get you in before the year ends!