Don't Let Them Expire: How to Maximize Your Dental Benefits Before Year-End
Dec 05, 2025
Recent research shows that 87% of Americans have some form of dental coverage. As the year draws to a close, many of them are likely focusing on wrapping gifts but forgetting to wrap up something equally valuable: their dental insurance benefits.
At Llanos Dental Group, we see this every year — patients who lose hundreds of dollars in unused benefits simply because they didn’t schedule their appointments in a timely manner.
If you have dental insurance, now’s the perfect moment to make the most of it before it resets in January. Here’s how to ensure you don’t leave money (or your oral health!) on the table.
Most dental insurance plans operate with a “use it or lose it” policy. That means your coverage typically runs on a calendar-year schedule and resets every January 1. Any unused benefits, such as preventive cleanings, exams, or restorative care, will not roll over into the following year.
Your plan likely includes:
The total amount your insurance will pay within the year.
The out-of-pocket amount you must pay before coverage begins.
Preventive care is often fully covered, while other treatments may be partially covered.
Knowing these details helps you plan your appointments strategically. Our team can review your benefits with you, explain what’s covered, and help you make the most of your remaining balance.
Most insurance plans fully cover preventive care, including professional cleanings, exams, and X-rays. If you haven’t had two cleanings this year, you’re likely missing out on benefits you’ve already paid for.
Preventive visits aren’t just about keeping your teeth bright, though; they also help us detect problems promptly. Cavities, gum disease, and even oral cancer are more straightforward (and less costly) to treat when caught early. By scheduling now, you can protect both your health and your wallet.
Keep in mind that December is one of the busiest times for dental offices, as many patients try to use their benefits before they expire. Booking your appointment early ensures you get a convenient time and avoid the year-end rush.
If you’ve been postponing dental work, this is the ideal time to schedule it. Delaying treatment can cause problems to worsen and may lead to more complex and costly procedures later, like root canals. For instance, treating at the first sign of dental caries prevents long-term pain, avoids the need for fillings, and ensures you don’t lose the tooth.
Completing treatment before the end of the year has another advantage: if you’ve already met your deductible, your insurance will likely cover a greater portion of your care. This can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
We can help you prioritize your care and coordinate your appointments efficiently, ensuring you maximize the value of your remaining benefits.
If you contribute to an FSA or HSA, check the balance before the end of the year. These accounts allow you to set aside pre-tax dollars for eligible medical and dental expenses, but unused FSA funds often expire on December 31.
You can use these funds for:
Our team can provide detailed receipts for your FSA or HSA claims, allowing you to take full advantage of your pre-tax savings before the deadline passes.
Once you’ve made the most of your current benefits, take a moment to plan for the year ahead.
If your employer offers an open enrollment period, review your dental coverage and ensure it meets your needs. If you’re considering larger treatments, such as dental implants or orthodontics, planning ahead allows you to schedule your procedures around benefit renewals and annual maximums.
We can help you design a personalized dental care plan that maximizes your insurance coverage throughout the year, not just at year-end.
Using your benefits before they expire isn’t just about saving money; it’s about maintaining long-term oral health. Regular dental care prevents minor issues from becoming major problems.
For instance, cleanings remove plaque buildup, exams catch cavities early, and X-rays reveal hidden concerns before they become painful or expensive.
Patients who consistently attend preventive visits typically experience fewer dental emergencies and enjoy better overall health. It’s a simple way to protect your smile and your finances.
Don’t wait until it’s too late — your unused benefits disappear when the clock strikes midnight on December 31. We can help you review your benefits, plan your care, and maximize your insurance coverage.
Call Llanos Dental Group today or schedule your year-end appointment online.