Dental insurance benefits usually expire on December 31. If you didn’t use your benefits last year, they are likely gone forever. Don’t let that happen again in 2026!
When you pay for dental insurance but don’t use it, you lose money. You also miss out on vital care. This preventive care keeps your teeth healthy and strong. January is the absolute best time to book your dentist appointments.
We recommend doing it now before you forget. This ensures you get the most out of your dental insurance this year.
Lock in Your Preferred Dates Early
Don’t worry about making your appointments too far in advance. Life happens, and you can always reschedule if something comes up later. It is much better to lock them into your calendar now.
When you book early, you secure the dates and times that work best for your schedule. If you wait, you might get busy and forget. Then, you might find yourself scrambling for an appointment at the end of the year when everyone else is trying to do the same thing.
Catch Up on Missed Care
Did you miss any appointments last year? If so, you should schedule an exam and cleaning as soon as possible. Ignoring your dental health can lead to bigger problems down the road.
Plaque and tartar buildup do not go away on their own. Over time, they can cause cavities and gingivitis. They can also lead to bad breath and gum disease.
A professional dental cleaning removes this buildup. It helps you start the new year out right. You will leave our office with a bright smile and healthier gums!
Update Your Information
The new year is also a good time to update your insurance information. A lot can change in a year.
Perhaps you changed jobs and have a new insurance provider. Maybe you added a new dependent to your plan. If anything has changed, please have that info ready when you call to schedule your next visit. This helps us verify your benefits before you arrive. It ensures your visit goes smoothly and without surprise costs.
What Does Dental Insurance Actually Cover?
Many patients are unsure about what their plan covers. In most cases, dental insurance is designed to focus on prevention.
Most plans will pay for all, or most, of the cost of preventive care. This typically includes:
- Professional cleanings
- Routine exams
- X-rays
- Fillings
Insurance plans usually cover the majority of the cost for medically necessary treatments too. This includes procedures like dental crowns or extractions.
However, you should know the limitations. Cosmetic procedures are not usually covered. This includes treatments like professional teeth whitening and Invisalign clear aligners. Elective treatments, such as laser therapy, are also rarely covered.
Know Before You Go
Because you are responsible for the cost of treatment, it’s important to know what’s covered. Do this research before you book an appointment for major work.
Remember, every policy is different. Two people with the same insurance carrier might have different coverage levels. If you have any questions about what your insurance provider might cover, ask them first. You should feel comfortable before you agree to a treatment plan.
Prioritizing Prevention at Hillside Dental
At Hillside Dental, prevention is a very important part of what we do. We believe that stopping problems before they start is the best way to care for your smile.
That is why we always encourage our patients to visit us every six months. Regular visits allow us to monitor your oral health closely. The sooner we spot any changes in your dental health, the easier it will be to repair them. Small cavities are easy to fill. Large cavities can turn into root canals or crowns. Catching issues early saves you time, discomfort, and money.
Financial Options for Your Care
We understand that dental care is an investment. We accept dental insurance to help offset these costs. We also accept financing options like CareCredit for those who need flexibility.
Our team is transparent about costs. We will always explain the full scope and cost of any recommended treatments. We want to help you choose the best options for your budget and your health.
Schedule Today
If you are due for an exam and cleaning, there is no better time than the present! Do not wait until your tooth hurts. Do not wait until December when the schedule is full.
Give us a call today to schedule your family’s 2026 appointments. Let’s make this year your healthiest smile yet!