As the final weeks of the year approach, many patients unintentionally leave valuable dental insurance dollars on the table. These unused benefits could help you protect your smile while reducing your out of pocket costs. Smile Shack Dental in Port Jefferson Station encourages you to schedule your visit before December 31 so you do not miss out. Most dental insurance plans operate on a use it or lose it basis, which means any remaining coverage disappears once the year ends.
What Use It or Lose It Really Means
Most insurance plans renew on January 1 and include an annual maximum that averages between one thousand and two thousand dollars per person. If you do not use this allowance before the year resets, the remaining balance does not roll over. Waiting too long can also allow minor dental issues to grow into more extensive and expensive problems.
By making an appointment now, you can complete cleanings, exams, fillings, crowns, and other recommended care while your 2024 benefits are still active.
Why You Should Reserve Your Appointment Early
The end of the year is one of the busiest times for dental offices. November and December appointment slots tend to fill quickly as patients hurry to use their remaining benefits. Scheduling ahead ensures you have plenty of time to complete any treatments you may need.
If our team identifies a concern during your checkup, beginning treatment now allows you to finish your care before your insurance renews.
Prevention Saves Money
Most dental plans fully cover preventive services such as cleanings, exams, and X rays. These visits help you stay ahead of dental issues and avoid the need for more complex procedures later on. Routine checkups are the best investment you can make for both your oral health and your budget.
Insurance Plans Accepted at Smile Shack Dental
Smile Shack Dental partners with many leading insurance providers to help you make the most of your benefits. We accept and work with most PPO plans. Here are some examples:
- Aetna Medicare Advantage Plans
- Ameritas
- Anthem
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Cigna
- GEHA FEDVIP plans
- Delta Dental
- DHA
- Guardian
- Humana
- MetLife PDP+
- Mutual of Omaha
- United Concordia PPO
- United Healthcare PPO
Our office files claims on your behalf and helps reduce out of pocket costs whenever possible. If you are unsure about your remaining coverage, call 631-928-7500 and our friendly team will verify your benefits.
Why Patients Lose Their Benefits Each Year
It is surprisingly easy to miss out on benefits you already pay for. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Skipping twice yearly cleanings that are already covered
- Delaying recommended treatments such as fillings or crowns
- Assuming unused benefits roll over to the next year
- Forgetting to coordinate FSA or HSA funds with dental care
Smart Ways to Maximize Your Insurance
- Review your plan to see how much of your annual maximum remains.
- Schedule cleanings, exams, or outstanding treatments before December 31.
- Use FSA funds before they expire at the end of the year.
- Talk with our team about treatment timelines if you need multiple visits. Starting now gives you the best chance to use your remaining benefits efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is an annual maximum?
It is the total amount your insurance will pay toward dental care during a calendar year. Once you reach that limit, the remaining costs are your responsibility until the plan resets. - Do unused benefits roll over into the next year?
No. Most dental plans eliminate unused benefits at the end of the year. - What services are usually covered each year?
Most plans cover two preventive visits and a portion of restorative treatments such as fillings, crowns, extractions, and other necessary care. - What does it mean when a dentist is in network?
In network dentists agree to contracted rates with your insurance provider, which helps lower your costs and simplifies claim processing. - How do I check my remaining benefits?
You can contact your insurance company or call our office. Our team will gladly review your coverage and explain what is still available. - What if I need several procedures?
Our dentists will create a treatment plan that helps you complete as much care as possible before the years benefits expire.
Make Your Appointment with Smile Shack Dental Today
Do not let your 2024 dental benefits go unused. Protect your oral health and stretch your insurance dollars by scheduling your visit now.
Call 631-928-7500 or email info@smileshack.com to book your next cleaning, exam, or treatment.
Start the new year with a healthy, confident smile and put your benefits to work before they reset.