If you have dental insurance, there's a good chance some of this year's coverage is still sitting unused. Most plans run on the calendar year, which means your benefits reset on December 31. Anything you don't use by then usually doesn't carry over.
Here's a simple way to make the most of what you've already paid for.
Why do dental benefits expire at the end of the year?
Most dental plans give you a yearly maximum, the most the plan will pay toward your care in a 12 month period. For many plans, that period matches the calendar year. On January 1, the maximum starts over, and often so does your deductible.
That means two things. First, coverage you don't use this year is gone. Second, if you've already met your deductible, care you get before the reset may cost you less than the same care in January.
What should I book before December 31?
Start with the basics. Most plans cover preventive care like cleanings and exams at a high level, and most patients do best with a visit every six months. If you haven't had both of this year's cleanings, now is the time.
At Century Smile Maker, a cleaning and exam includes:
- Plaque and tartar removal above and below the gumline
- Gum measurements, six per tooth, tracked over time
- A tooth by tooth exam with intraoral photos by Dr. Esfahani
- An oral cancer screening at every visit
- Digital X-rays, only when they're due
- A personal home care plan
If your dentist has already recommended treatment, like a filling, a crown or gum care, starting it before the reset can help you use this year's benefits while they're still available.
How do I find out what I have left?
You can call your insurance company or check your member portal. Or let us do it. Send us your insurance card before your visit, and our team will verify your benefits so you know what's covered before you sit down. We accept all PPO plans and some HMO plans.
Don't have insurance?
You can still get care at Century Smile Maker. New patients without insurance can book an exam for $99, or $199 with a cleaning, and financing is available for larger treatment.
Book before the holiday rush
November and December are the busiest months of the year for dental offices, because everyone is trying to use their benefits at once. Booking early gives you the best choice of times, and leaves room to schedule a follow up visit before the year ends if you need one.
Frequently asked questions
When do dental benefits reset?
Most dental plans run on the calendar year, so benefits usually reset on December 31. Check your plan or ask us to verify it for you.
Do unused dental benefits roll over?
Usually not. Coverage you don't use by the end of your plan year is typically gone, and your deductible often starts over too.
What does a cleaning and exam include at Century Smile Maker?
Plaque and tartar removal above and below the gumline, gum measurements, a tooth by tooth exam with intraoral photos, an oral cancer screening, digital X-rays when due, and a home care plan.
Can you check my insurance before my visit?
Yes. Send us your insurance card before your visit and our team will verify your benefits. We accept all PPO plans and some HMO plans.
Century Smile Maker is at 2080 Century Park East, Suite 1103, in Century City, open Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM. Book your cleaning and exam, and we'll check your benefits for you.
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