We get it. The end of the year is hectic. Between holiday plans, family schedules, and work commitments, it’s easy to forget about your dental benefits. But taking a few minutes now could save you hundreds of dollars and help protect your oral health for years to come.
Every year, millions of Americans lose valuable dental coverage simply because they don’t use it. According to the 2024 State of Dental Benefits Market, fewer than 5% of insured Americans reach their annual benefit maximum. That means most people are leaving money and care they’ve already paid for on the table.
With the year coming to a close, now’s the time to make sure you’re getting the most from your benefits before they expire.
What “Use It or Lose It” Really Means
Most dental insurance plans and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) reset at the end of the year. Any unused benefits, such as covered cleanings, exams, or treatments, disappear once the plan renews.
It’s an easy detail to overlook, especially during the busy holiday season. But those benefits are yours. They’re part of what you pay for each month or through your employer. If you don’t use them, you lose them, and that can mean paying more down the road.
Using your benefits before December 31 isn’t just about saving money. It’s about staying healthy. Preventive visits can catch small issues early, before they turn into larger, more expensive problems. And if you’re planning a bigger treatment, completing part of it this year and the rest next year can help you take advantage of two annual coverage periods.
Why Using Your Benefits Matters
You’ve already invested in your smile, so make sure that investment works for you.
Financial: You’ve paid for these benefits, so don’t let them go unused. Even if you’ve already reached your limit this year, it’s worth checking your plan or exploring alternatives, such as Dental Discount Plans (also known as Dental Savings Plans). These can be an excellent option for individuals with stable dental health who want to save on care throughout the year.
Health: Preventive care is one of the best forms of protection. A simple cleaning or early filling today could prevent the need for a crown, implant, or root canal tomorrow.
Convenience: As the year comes to a close, appointment slots fill up quickly. Scheduling early gives you more flexibility.
Empowerment: Understanding and using your benefits puts you in charge of both your oral health and your budget.
If you’ve been putting off your cleaning, this is your reminder: you’ve already paid for it. Don’t let it go to waste.
What Your Plan Likely Covers
While every insurance plan is different, most follow a similar structure:
| Type of Care | Typical Coverage | Common Examples |
| Preventive | 100% | Cleanings, exams, X-rays |
| Basic | ~80% | Fillings, extractions, root canals |
| Major | ~50% | Crowns, bridges, dentures, implants |
Most plans cover two cleanings per year. If you’ve only used one, there’s still time to schedule your second before December 31.
If you’re unsure what your plan includes, check with your insurance provider, employer, or dental office. Our team at Health Centered Dentistry can also help you understand your remaining benefits.
Common Reasons People Miss Out and How to Avoid Them
Busy schedules: December fills up fast. Between travel, kids, and work deadlines, dental care often gets pushed aside. Booking now helps you avoid the holiday rush.
Insurance confusion: Not all plans reset on January 1. Some follow a different schedule based on when you enrolled. If you’re not sure, call your provider or our office. We’ll help you sort it out.
Dental anxiety: Many people experience anxiety when visiting the dentist. Our gentle and compassionate team, combined with advanced technology, is designed to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
Cost concerns: Preventive visits are usually covered in full, and larger treatments can often be split across two benefit years to make them more affordable.
“No pain, no problem” thinking: Just because your mouth feels fine doesn’t mean everything is fine. Preventive care is the most cost-effective way to protect your oral and overall health.
Your Year-End Dental Checklist
Here’s how to make sure you’re maximizing your 2025 dental benefits before they expire:
- Schedule your cleaning: Most plans include two per year. Use your second now.
- Use your FSA or HSA funds: These accounts often expire at the end of the year.
- Complete pending treatments: Finish any fillings, crowns, or implants before December 31.
- Plan ahead: Split multi-step procedures between December and January to stretch your benefits.
- Ask for help: Our team can review your insurance details and assist you in planning your care efficiently.
For Patients Without Insurance
No insurance? You still have options.
Ask us about Dental Savings Plans, which provide discounted rates on cleanings, emergencies, and elective treatments year-round. These plans can be a great way to stay on top of your oral health without the limitations of traditional insurance, especially if your dental needs are predictable and you prefer flexible payment options.
Anchorage’s Home for Whole-Body Dental Wellness
At Health Centered Dentistry, we view oral health as a vital part of your total well-being. Our approach is preventive, biocompatible, and focused on long-term results, not just quick fixes.
For patients who feel anxious about dental care, our calm environment and advanced technology help create a more relaxing experience. Whether you need a routine cleaning or a comprehensive restorative plan, our team is here to support you with education, transparency, and care tailored to your needs.
Anchorage families trust Health Centered Dentistry for care that’s preventive, personalized, and compassionate.
Schedule Before December 31
Don’t let your 2025 dental benefits or your FSA funds go to waste.
Schedule your appointment today and let our team help you maximize your remaining coverage. Call, text, or book online to reserve your visit before the holiday rush.
Take care of your smile and your wallet before the year ends.
