Don’t Let Your 2025 Dental Benefits Go to Waste
As we get closer to the end of the year, it’s a good time to take a closer look at something many people forget about—your dental insurance benefits. Most dental insurance plans reset every January, meaning any unused benefits from 2025 will disappear once the clock strikes midnight on December 31. If you’ve been putting off your cleaning, exam, or treatment, now’s the perfect time to schedule before your benefits expire.
Why Using Your Benefits Matters
Your dental insurance is designed to help you stay on top of your oral health, not just fix problems when they arise. Preventive care—like cleanings, exams, and X-rays—is often covered at little or no cost to you. These visits help catch issues early, when they’re easier (and less expensive) to treat.
When benefits go unused, it’s essentially money left on the table. You’ve already paid for your coverage through premiums or employer contributions, so you might as well take advantage of it before it resets for 2026.
Related Article: Preventive Care 101: Staying Ahead of Oral Health Issues
Common Benefits That Often Go Unused
Many patients don’t realize their insurance may help cover:
Preventive cleanings and exams
Fillings or crowns for decayed or damaged teeth
Periodontal (gum) therapy
Fluoride treatments or sealants
X-rays for diagnostic care
Nightguards for teeth grinding
Even if you’re not currently experiencing pain, using your benefits for preventive care now can help avoid more serious problems—and bigger bills—later.
The Year-End Rush Is Real
As December approaches, dental offices tend to fill up quickly with patients trying to use their remaining benefits. Scheduling early gives you more flexibility and ensures you don’t miss your chance to maximize your coverage. If you’ve been told you need follow-up treatment—like a filling, crown, or root canal—don’t wait until next year. Taking care of it now could save you from paying out-of-pocket once your benefits reset.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) Count, Too
If you have an FSA, remember that many of these funds also expire at the end of the year. Using your FSA dollars toward necessary dental work, nightguards, or other eligible expenses is a smart way to make sure your money doesn’t go unused.
Keep Your Smile Healthy (and Your Wallet Happy)
Regular dental care isn’t just about maintaining a beautiful smile—it’s about protecting your overall health. Studies show that poor oral health is linked to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even respiratory problems. By taking advantage of your remaining 2025 benefits, you’re investing in both your oral and overall wellness.
Don’t wait until it’s too late!