End-of-Year Dental Insurance: Use It or Lose It

End-of-Year Dental Insurance: Use It or Lose It

As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time to make the most of your dental benefits. Many patients don’t realize their insurance resets annually—meaning any unused coverage simply disappears. If you’re looking to use your dental insurance in Folsom or Cameron Park before it expires, Hammond & Proctor Family Dentistry is here to help you maximize your care.

TL;DR / Key Takeaway

Dental insurance typically resets on January 1st. If you haven’t used your benefits, you could be leaving valuable coverage on the table. Book your appointment now to use it before you lose it.

Why Insurance Doesn’t Roll Over

Most dental insurance plans include an annual maximum—a set amount of money you can use for preventive and restorative care. Unfortunately, any unused portion doesn’t carry over into the next year.

In other words, if you’ve paid for benefits all year long and haven’t used them, those dollars vanish once your plan resets.

Common Covered Services to Consider

• Routine exams and cleanings: Usually covered 100% and help catch issues early
• X-rays: Covered annually or bi-annually by most plans
• Fillings or crowns: Often partially covered—don’t delay needed treatment
• Periodontal cleanings: Covered for those with gum disease

Need a crown, filling, or other treatment? Now’s the time to get it scheduled before your deductible resets.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait Until December

The end of the year is one of the busiest times in dentistry as patients rush to use up benefits. Waiting too long could mean fewer appointment options or longer wait times.

Booking early helps ensure you:

• Get the appointment time you want
• Have enough time for multi-visit treatments
• Avoid out-of-pocket costs when plans reset

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) Apply Too

If you have an FSA, the same rule applies: most funds expire at the end of the calendar year. Use these funds on eligible dental treatments before they’re gone.

Let Us Help You Maximize Your Benefits

Our team can help you:

• Check your insurance benefits
• Review treatment needs and timelines
• Prioritize care based on what’s covered

We work with most major insurance providers and are happy to answer any questions you have about your plan.

Ready to use your dental benefits before they expire? Book your appointment with our Folsom or Cameron Park office today.