Your Year-End Dental Benefits Checklist

By Gregory Cole, DDS

As the year draws to a close, it's a good time to consider your dental benefits and how you can make the most of them before they reset. Many dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year basis, meaning your unused benefits may not roll over into the next year. Below is a checklist of steps you may want to prioritize before December 31st.

Review Your Maximum Coverage Limit

One of the primary reasons to utilize your dental benefits before they expire is cost-effectiveness. Most insurance plans come with an annual maximum coverage limit, which is the highest amount your plan will pay for dental care within one year. If you haven’t reached this limit by the end of the year, the remaining amount does not carry over to the next year. Essentially, any unused benefits are lost.

Evaluate Your Coverage, FSA, and HSA Accounts

To make the most of your various insurance and flexible spending accounts, it’s essential to understand the types of dental care each plan covers. Most dental insurance plans cover preventive care (such as cleanings and exams) that expire at the end of the year, while FSA and HSA accounts may carry over into the new year. 

However, because flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSAs) provide tax advantages, you may want to use funds during the current calendar year. Eligible dental expenses for these accounts often include root canals, fillings, and dentures.  Now is a good time to carefully review your FSA and HAS accounts to help clarify exactly what is covered.

Take Advantage of Your Preventive Care Benefits

Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are critical for both good oral and overall health. These preventive measures can help identify and address issues early, potentially saving you from more extensive and costly procedures down the road. By scheduling your routine check-up before benefits expire, you can have peace of mind that any developing issues are caught early.

Address Outstanding Dental Issues

If you've been postponing dental work, now may be a good time to schedule it. Whether it's a filling, crown, or other necessary procedure, using your remaining benefits can significantly reduce out-of-pocket contributions and ensure you are getting the proper care you need.  The last thing we want to see is more severe dental problems resulting from the postponement of necessary treatment.

Positive Steps for a Healthy Future

Beyond immediate benefits, making sure you’re taking care of your dental health before the year ends sets a positive precedent for the future. Regular dental check-ups and proactive care contribute to better overall health and well-being. 

If you haven’t scheduled a dental checkup and professional cleaning in six months or more, consider getting up to date.  Our team at Westover Dentistry is always happy to get you scheduled as soon as possible, at your convenience.

Westover Dentistry has been serving our neighbors in and around Richmond for nearly fifty years. If you or a loved one has any questions about your oral health, don't hesitate to   contact us today.