Why Now Is the Time to Use Your Dental Benefits

As the end of the year approaches, calendars fill up fast — with holiday plans, family gatherings, and last-minute to-dos. But there’s one thing that shouldn’t be left off your list: making the most of your dental benefits before they reset.

At Pleasant Plains Dental in Indian Trail, NC, our team — Dr. Henry J. Ernst, Dr. Paul Kim, Dr. Henk Grobbelaar, and Dr. Nikhil Alaigh — works with patients every day to help them get the care they need in a way that fits their schedule, their coverage, and their goals. And this time of year, that often means using benefits before they expire.

Dental Benefits Reset Annually — Don’t Let Yours Go Unused

Most dental insurance plans work on a calendar year basis. That means once December 31 passes, any unused benefits — whether for cleanings, exams, or other treatment — are gone. They don’t roll over, and there’s no way to reclaim them once they expire.

If your plan includes an annual maximum (like $1,000 or more), and you haven’t yet used it, you may still have coverage available for preventive or restorative care. Scheduling before the year ends ensures you’re getting full value from a benefit you’ve already invested in.

Staying Ahead of Problems Is Always the Better Option

A cleaning or checkup may not feel urgent, especially during a busy season — but preventive care is how we catch issues early, when they’re easier (and less costly) to treat.

Routine visits can:

• Catch small cavities before they spread
• Identify signs of gum inflammation or infection
• Monitor existing fillings, crowns, or dental work
• Help you avoid surprises in the new year

Whether it’s been six months or longer since your last exam, now is an excellent time to get back on track.

You’re Covered — Use That to Your Advantage

If you’ve been paying monthly premiums, those benefits are already in place. Using them before year-end isn’t just smart — it’s part of what you’ve already paid for.

Covered services may include:

• Professional cleanings
• Dental exams and X-rays
• Fillings and other basic restorations
• Periodontal care
• Crowns or other treatments, depending on your plan

If you’re unsure what’s included or what’s still available under your plan, our team can help you find out — and guide you in making the most of it.

Book Now, Before the Schedule Fills Up

Every year, we see a surge in appointment requests as the end of December nears. Waiting too long can limit your options — or make it harder to complete recommended treatment while coverage is still active.

Scheduling now ensures:

• More flexibility in appointment times
• Space to finish any multi-visit care
• A stress-free way to wrap up your dental year

We’ll work with you to fit care into your calendar in a way that feels manageable and timely.

Even If Everything Feels Fine — It’s Worth Checking In

Many dental issues begin quietly, without pain or visible symptoms. That’s why regular exams matter, even if nothing seems “wrong.” A small area of decay or early gum inflammation can be addressed quickly — and comfortably — before it leads to a more complex situation.

Think of your end-of-year visit as a reset: a chance to head into the new year with a clean slate, a clean mouth, and peace of mind.

Make the Most of Your Dental Benefits at Pleasant Plains Dental

If it’s been a while since your last appointment, or you’ve been holding off on scheduling care, we’re here to help. At Pleasant Plains Dental in Indian Trail, NC, we make it easy to understand your coverage, get timely care, and feel confident about your smile.

Call us today to schedule before the year ends — and let’s make sure your dental benefits work for you while they’re still available.

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Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0