The calendar is winding down, and with it, your dental insurance benefits. If you haven't thought about your coverage lately, now's the time—because "use it or lose it" means exactly what it sounds like: any unused benefits don't roll over to next year, they simply disappear on December 31.
Insurance Benefits You're Leaving on the Table
Most dental insurance plans follow the calendar year, which means your benefits reset on January 1. Here's what that means for you:
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Annual maximum: Most plans cover $1,000–$2,000 per year in dental work. If you haven't used that full amount, you're essentially leaving money on the table.
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Deductible resets: Already met your deductible this year? Great! Any treatment you complete now won't require you to meet it again. Wait until January, and you'll start from zero.
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Preventive care: Most plans cover cleanings, exams, and x-rays at 100%. If you haven't had your two cleanings this year, you're missing out on fully-covered care.
Don't Forget Your FSA or HSA
If you contribute to a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA), those funds often have year-end deadlines too. FSA funds typically must be used by December 31, or you'll lose them. While HSA funds roll over, using them before year-end can help you maximize this year's contributions.
Maximize Your Benefits Before Year-End
The bottom line? Schedule now and address recommended treatment while your dental benefits are still available. Whether it's completing that recommended orthodontic treatment, addressing a filling your dentist in Aurora, CO, mentioned at your last visit, or simply getting your second cleaning, don't wait until December when everyone's scrambling for appointments.
If you haven't visited the dentist yet in 2025, you're likely sitting on your full annual benefit. A comprehensive exam can identify any issues and help you create a treatment plan that maximizes your remaining coverage.
Let's Get You Scheduled
Your benefits are valuable, so don't let them go to waste. Call (720) 653-3223 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Baller at Baller Dental & Ortho at Southlands. We'll check your remaining benefits and help you make the most of your coverage before the year ends.