As the end of the year approaches, many patients assume they only need to visit the dentist if something feels wrong. But the truth is this: your dental benefits reset on January 1st, and if you don’t use them before December 31st, you lose them — even if you didn’t need major treatment this year.

That’s why now is the perfect time to make sure you’re getting the most value out of the benefits you’ve already paid for. And yes — even if your teeth feel perfectly fine.

Here are the top five reasons to schedule your visit before your benefits expire.

1. Dental Problems Often Don’t Hurt Until They’re Serious

Most oral health issues start silently.

Cavities
Cracked teeth
Gum disease
Early infections

These conditions begin developing long before you feel discomfort. By the time something hurts, the problem is usually more complicated — and more expensive — to fix.

A simple exam and cleaning now can help detect issues early, while treatment is easier and covered by your benefits.

2. Preventive Visits Are Usually Fully Covered

Most dental insurance plans include:

• Two cleanings per year
• A comprehensive exam
• X-rays
• Fluoride for kids

at little to no out-of-pocket cost.

If you skip your cleaning now, you’re missing a benefit you’ve already paid for through your premiums.

Using coverage for preventive visits helps avoid future dental emergencies that cost more and aren’t fully covered.

3. You May Still Have Unused Benefits You Already Paid For

Every year, millions of patients leave hundreds of dollars in unused dental benefits behind. Once the clock strikes midnight on December 31st:

• Your annual maximum resets
• Any unused benefits disappear
• You start over with your deductible in January

If you’ve delayed treatment or haven’t used all of your covered preventive visits, completing them now ensures you get the full value of your insurance plan.

4. Treating Small Problems Now Saves Money Later

A tiny cavity now might only need a simple filling.
Wait a few months, and it could become:

• A root canal
• A crown
• A cracked tooth
• A dental emergency

The cost difference can be hundreds of dollars, even with insurance.

When your benefits reset, you also start fresh with your deductible — meaning January treatment could cost you more than taking care of it now.

5. Holiday Schedules Fill Up Quickly

Dental offices get extremely busy in November and December because everyone is trying to use their remaining benefits. The sooner you schedule, the more flexible your appointment options will be.

If you’ve been putting off your cleaning, exam, or recommended treatment, now is the time to take care of it. Your future self — and your wallet — will thank you.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Even if your teeth feel great, using your dental benefits before December 31st is one of the easiest ways to protect both your smile and your budget. A quick visit today can help you:

• Catch problems early
• Avoid higher costs later
• Use benefits you’ve already paid for
• Walk into the new year with a healthier smile

Now is the perfect time to schedule your end-of-year dental appointment and make sure you’re getting the full value of your dental insurance plan.