Year-End Dental Insurance Checklist: Maximize Dental Benefits Before They Expire
October 21, 2025 9:00 amIt’s amazing how fast the year flies — one minute it’s summer, and the next thing you know, the holidays are here. Amid the shopping lists, travel plans, and school events, one important to-do often gets overlooked: using your dental benefits before they expire.
At Salem Creek Family Dental in Murfreesboro, TN, Dr. Ashley Costello and Dr. Alaina Skidmore want to help you make the most of your coverage. Here’s a quick checklist to help you maximize your dental insurance benefits before the year ends.
1. Check Your Remaining Benefits
Most dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year. That means your benefits — including coverage for exams, cleanings, fillings, and other treatments — reset on January 1st. Any unused amount usually disappears when the clock strikes midnight on December 31st.
It’s worth taking a few minutes to review what’s left on your plan. Our friendly front desk team can help you understand what’s covered and what’s still available so you don’t leave money (or care) on the table.
2. Schedule That Cleaning or Exam
Routine checkups and cleanings are typically covered at 100% by insurance, yet they’re the appointments most people postpone. Getting your cleaning done before year’s end not only uses your benefits but also helps prevent bigger problems down the road — like cavities or gum disease.
If it’s been six months (or longer) since your last visit, now’s the perfect time to book before schedules fill up for the holidays.
3. Complete Any Outstanding Treatment Plans
If you’ve started a crown, filling, or other dental procedure but haven’t finished it yet, now’s the time to wrap it up. You’ve already met your deductible, so finishing treatment before the end of the year can help you save money compared to waiting until your deductible resets in January.
Plus, you’ll head into the new year with a healthy, confident smile — no pending dental work hanging over your head.
4. Don’t Forget About Your FSA or HSA
If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), check your balance — those funds usually don’t roll over. You can often use FSA dollars for treatments like fillings, crowns, mouthguards, and even orthodontic work. Some Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) roll over, but it’s still smart to check your deadlines.
If you’re unsure how to use these benefits, our team can help you identify eligible services and plan ahead.
5. Plan for 2026 Now
End-of-year is also a great time to think ahead. If you anticipate needing more extensive dental work or want to start cosmetic treatments like whitening or Invisalign next year, scheduling early ensures you can plan financially and fit appointments into your busy calendar.
We can even coordinate multi-step treatments to help you maximize both this year’s and next year’s benefits strategically.
Maximize Your 2025 Dental Benefits at Salem Creek Family Dental
Your dental benefits are part of your overall health investment — don’t let them go to waste. At Salem Creek Family Dental, Dr. Ashley Costello and Dr. Alaina Skidmore make it easy to finish the year strong with personalized, compassionate care for the whole family.
Call our Murfreesboro office today to schedule your end-of-year appointment. We’ll help you maximize your coverage, use your remaining benefits wisely, and head into the new year smiling bright.
Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0
Categorised in: Dental Tips, Financial