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Use It or Lose It: Dental Coverage Resets Soon
- DrSharp!
- 22 hours ago
- 3 min read
As the year winds down, many patients don’t realize that their dental insurance benefits often do, too. If you’ve been putting off treatment or haven’t used your coverage for preventive visits, now is the time to act. At Castle Lake Dental, we want to help you make the most of your insurance before your benefits reset.
Understanding How Your Dental Deductible Works
Every dental insurance plan comes with a yearly deductible — the amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance begins covering certain services.
For example, if your deductible is $50, you’ll pay that amount toward treatment first, and then your insurance starts sharing the cost. Once that deductible is met for the year, you’ll typically pay much less (or sometimes nothing) for the rest of your covered treatments. If you’ve already met your deductible for this year, delaying treatment could mean paying it all over again when January arrives. That’s why it’s smart to complete any pending dental care before your deductible resets.
Your Annual Maximum Doesn’t Roll Over
Most dental insurance plans include an annual maximum — the total amount your insurance will pay for your care during the plan year. Once that amount is reached, you’re responsible for any additional costs.
Here’s the part many people don’t realize: if you don’t use your full benefit amount by December 31, those unused dollars disappear. They don’t roll over into the new year.
Think of it this way: you’ve already paid your monthly premiums, so if you skip your cleaning or delay treatment, you’re leaving money on the table that’s meant for your oral health.
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Dental Treatment
If you have pending dental treatment — such as fillings and/or crowns — postponing care can lead to more complicated and costly issues later. Small problems like minor decay or gum inflammation rarely stay small. When treatment is delayed, cavities can deepen, infections can develop, and more extensive (and expensive) procedures may be required.
By completing your treatment before the year ends, you not only make the most of your benefits, but you also protect your oral health and potentially avoid larger dental bills in the future.
Preventive Visits Are Fully Covered (and Extremely Valuable)
Most insurance plans cover preventive care at 100%, which includes professional cleanings, exams, and sometimes X-rays. These visits are essential for catching small issues early and maintaining long-term oral health.
If you haven’t had your two covered cleanings this year, schedule one before December 31 to take advantage of the coverage you’ve already paid for.
Why Now Is the Best Time to Schedule
Dental offices, including ours, tend to get busy at the end of the year as patients rush to use their benefits before they expire. Booking early ensures you’ll get a convenient appointment time that fits your schedule.
If you’re unsure what benefits remain, our front office team at Castle Lake Dental can help you review your coverage and identify any remaining funds or treatments that can be completed before the year closes.
Make the Most of Your 2025 Benefits Before They’re Gone
Your dental insurance is designed to help you stay healthy — but only if you use it. By understanding how your deductible, annual maximum, and treatment coverage work, you can make smart choices that protect both your smile and your wallet.
Don’t wait until January to start fresh with new costs and unmet deductibles.Use your benefits now and end the year with a healthier, brighter smile.
Castle Lake Dental proudly serves the Castle Hills, Lewisville, and The Colony communities with comprehensive dental care for the entire family. If you’re ready to make the most of your remaining benefits, call us today or schedule your visit online — before the year runs out!