As the year winds down and we prepare for the holiday season, there’s an important item you should add to your to-do list: maximizing your dental benefits. At ABC Dental Chicago, we want to ensure our patients get the most out of the dental insurance plans they’ve invested in all year.
If you haven’t used your full 2025 dental benefits, now is the time to act. Here’s why scheduling your appointment before December 31st is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make for your oral health.
The “Use It or Lose It” Rule
Most dental insurance plans operate on a “use it or lose it” basis. This means:
- Your annual maximum (the total dollar amount your plan will pay for care in a year) does not roll over.
- Your deductible (the amount you pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in) typically resets.
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA) funds often expire at year’s end.
Any unused benefits expire for 2025 on December 31st and will not carry over into the new year. By scheduling your cleaning or treatment now, you’re essentially using money you’ve already allocated for your health, preventing it from going to waste.
A Timely Reminder: Insurance Premiums Are Rising
You may have already heard that health and dental insurance premiums are increasing for many plans in 2026. This makes using your current benefits even more crucial. You’ve been paying your premiums all year to maintain this coverage. Getting the preventive care and treatments you need now is the best way to ensure you get a strong return on that investment before costs go up.
Planning for More Extensive Treatment? Start NOW.
Have you been putting off a dental procedure that requires more than one visit, such as a crown, a series of fillings, or periodontal treatment? The end of the year is the perfect time to start.
Here’s a smart strategy to maximize two years of benefits for one course of treatment:
- Start your treatment in 2025. We can begin the procedure and apply all costs toward your 2025 annual maximum and deductible.
- Complete your treatment in 2026. When you return in the new year to finish, those costs will apply to your newly refreshed 2026 benefits.
This approach can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses, making essential dental care much more affordable. However, our appointment book fills up quickly during the holiday season, so it’s essential to plan ahead.
What Should You Use Your Benefits For?
Consider using your expiring benefits for:
- Your routine hygiene cleaning and exam: This is 100% covered by most plans!
- Catching up on any recommended treatments: Have a small cavity you’ve been monitoring? Now is the time to get it filled.
- Replacing old dental work: If you have a worn-out filling or crown, use your benefits to restore your tooth.
- Professional teeth whitening: Start the new year with a brighter, more confident smile.
Ready to Maximize Your Benefits? We’re Here to Help!
Don’t let your hard-earned benefits vanish. Our friendly team at ABC Dental Chicago is ready to help you navigate your insurance plan and schedule your appointment before the year-end rush.
Let us help you finish 2025 with a healthy, happy smile and start 2026 on the right foot. Contact us today!
Ready to Restore Your Smile? Your smile is your signature. Let us help you reclaim it.
Book Your Appointment or Free Second Opinion with one of our top Chicago dentists: Schedule online or
Call us at 773-481-2200