Imagine paying for a gym membership but never actually going. It feels like a waste, right? That’s how many people treat their dental insurance—something they have but rarely use to its full potential. You may not realize that most dental insurance plans operate on a “use it or lose it” basis. If you don’t take advantage of your benefits before the year ends, they vanish, leaving you without the care you’ve already paid for.

So, how can you ensure you’re keeping valuable dental care from slipping away? It’s all about strategy and knowing what your insurance offers. Let’s break it down and ensure you get the most bang for your buck.

Know What You’re Covered For

First, let’s start with a critical step: understanding what your dental insurance covers. Too many people assume their insurance only covers essential cleaning, but most plans offer much more. Regular exams, x-rays, fillings, and even more involved treatments like crowns or root canals might be covered. It’s a good idea to get a copy of your plan’s details or speak with your dentist to see what’s available.

By knowing your coverage, you can schedule essential treatments and services before the year ends. Instead of waiting for a problem to arise, proactive use of your benefits can prevent future issues—and save you from more significant expenses.

Schedule Preventive Care Early

Most insurance plans often fully cover preventive care, meaning you won’t have to shell out extra for cleanings and exams. Regular dental checkups catch problems early when they’re easier and less expensive. Yet, many people delay these visits, thinking they’ll get to it “eventually.” Before you know it, the year has flown by, and those unused benefits have disappeared.

Suppose you’re due for a checkup or cleaning; book immediately. Dentists at Smiles Of Virginia tend to get fully booked toward the end of the year as everyone scrambles to use their benefits. By scheduling now, you’ll secure your spot and ensure you’re making the most of your plan before time runs out.

Don’t Wait for a Problem

Putting off dental work until something hurts is tempting, but that’s a risky game. Minor issues like cavities can turn into major headaches (literally) if left untreated. Why wait until a minor fix becomes a big, expensive one?

Consider this: if your insurance covers part or most of the treatment, why not take advantage of that now? By addressing minor problems before they escalate, you can save yourself a lot of pain—and money—down the road. Use your benefits now for restorative care like fillings, crowns, or even orthodontics if they’re covered. Your future self will thank you.

Maximize Your Annual Maximum

Dental insurance plans usually have an annual maximum—the highest amount your insurer will pay within a year. If you haven’t hit that limit, you’re leaving money on the table. Think of it like this: that unused amount won’t roll over into the following year. Once the year ends, it’s gone for good.

Take stock of where you are with your dental treatments and benefits. If you have significant work you’ve been putting off, it may make sense to complete it before the year ends. Need a crown or a series of fillings? Now might be the time to act. 

Coordinate With Your Dentist

One of the best strategies for maximizing dental insurance is working closely with your dentist. They can help you prioritize treatments based on insurance coverage and health needs. Splitting treatments across two calendar years is common to maximize your insurance benefits.

For example, if you need multiple procedures, consider completing some now and finishing others at the beginning of next year when your benefits reset. This way, you’re spreading the costs and coverage across two periods while taking full advantage of your insurance.

Time to Take Action

Every year, millions of dollars in dental benefits go unused. You’ve paid for these benefits—why not use them? By acting now, you can maximize what you’ve already invested in and take care of your dental health.

No one likes wasting money, and your dental insurance is no different. Don’t let your benefits expire unused. Call your dentist at Smiles Of Virginia today and start planning how to make the most of what you’re already paying for. Your teeth (and your wallet) will thank you later.