With the end of the year right around the corner, now is the time to schedule your final semi-annual dental checkup and cleaning or any unperformed dental work. That’s because if you have dental insurance, when the clock strikes midnight on January 1, 2025, your benefits will reset, and you’ll lose what’s left of your 2024 benefits. But while yes, you will get new benefits (depending on your plan) there are myriad reasons why you should make the most of your current ones before it’s too late.
It’s Your Money
When you pay for dental insurance, you are paying for a maximum of benefits that you can use each year. For most people, this ranges between $1,000 and $1,500, depending on their plan. When you don’t use this money, it does not roll over into the new year; instead, you simply lose your hard-earned money.
Furthermore, if you must pay a deductible before your insurance covers treatment, this will reset as well. This means that if you’ve already met your deductible in 2024, you won’t have to pay it for the rest of the year; however, you will have to pay it again starting on January 1. Worse yet, if your coverage has changed or your policy cost will increase in 2025, you will end up paying more for the same services if you wait until the new year.
The Longer You Wait…
Unfortunately, dental problems don’t usually go away on their own. Cavities get bigger, infections spread, and gum disease can cause severe damage if left untreated. Thus, if your dentist has recommended treatment for an oral health problem, it is in your best interest to get it taken care of as soon as possible, and you might as well do it while you still have your 2024 benefits available. After all, the last thing you want to do is ring in 2025 with a toothache!
For lengthier treatments like Invisalign or dental implants, you may not be able to complete them by January 1, but the sooner you get started, the faster you can enjoy your results, and if you use your 2024 benefits before they expire you’ll have your 2025 benefits to fall back on should a dental emergency arise next year.
Remember, when it comes to your dental insurance, if you don’t use it, you lose it, so check your plan and maximize your benefits before the clock strikes midnight on January 1!
About Our Practice
At Loretto Family Dentistry, we want to make sure our patients get the most from their dental insurance. Whether it’s ensuring your teeth and gums are healthy at your semi-annual exam and cleaning, repairing a damaged tooth, or treating an ongoing issue like gum disease, we’re happy to help you understand your benefits so you can protect your oral health and live your best life.
To schedule an appointment before the year’s end, please visit our website or call us today at 940-498-2290.