Can you believe we’re already heading into March? If you’re like most people, you probably made some health-related resolutions for the new year. But here’s something you might not have considered: your dental insurance benefits just reset, and you’ve already used up nearly two months of the year to maximize them. At Family, Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry, we want to help you make the most of what you’re already paying for.
Understanding How to Maximize Your Dental Insurance This Year
Most dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year, which means your coverage reset on January 1st. This annual reset affects several important aspects of your plan:
• Your annual maximum (typically $1,000-$2,000) starts fresh
• Your deductible resets to zero
• Your allowance for preventive care renews
• Any waiting periods for certain procedures may have ended
The key to getting the best value from your plan is scheduling a dental visit early in the year and planning any needed treatments across the months ahead. Dr. Fadi Raffoul and our team can help you create a treatment planning strategy that works with your coverage.
What Does Dental Insurance Cover?
Most dental insurance plans follow a tiered structure. Preventive care, like your dental check-up, cleaning and exam, and X-rays, is typically covered at 100% with no out-of-pocket costs. This means you can get two cleanings per year without paying anything beyond your monthly premiums.
Basic procedures such as fillings usually have an 80% coverage rate, while major work like crowns or implants might be covered at 50%. Whether you have a PPO, HMO, or another plan type affects your benefits, too. As an in-network dentist with many major insurance carriers, we can often help you save more compared to going out-of-network.
Some plans also cover fluoride treatment for adults, though coverage varies. That’s why it’s important to use your dental benefits strategically throughout the year.
What Happens If I Don’t Use My Dental Benefits?
Here’s the reality: dental insurance follows a “use it or lose it” policy. Unlike a flexible spending account or HSA where you might have a grace period, your dental insurance annual maximum doesn’t roll over. If you don’t use your benefits by December 31st, you simply lose them—and you’ve still been paying your premiums all year long.
This dental insurance reminder is especially important if you’ve been putting off needed dental work. Every month you wait is one less month you have to spread out treatments and maximize your annual maximum.
Making Your First Appointment Is Easy
Whether you’re new to our practice or it’s been a while since your last visit, getting started is simple. You can download our new patient forms ahead of time to speed up your first appointment.
We accept most major insurance plans, and our team will verify your coverage before your visit so there are no surprises about your copay or deductible. We’ll also explain your benefits and help you understand exactly what’s covered. For detailed information about payment options, including how we work with insurance, check out our payment information page.
Schedule Your Visit Today
Don’t let another month slip by without using the dental insurance benefits you’re already paying for. Call Family, Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry at 813-684-7888 to schedule your appointment. Dr. Raffoul and our caring team are here to help you achieve optimal oral health while making the most of your insurance coverage. Your smile—and your wallet—will thank you!
