Use It or Lose It: Dental Insurance

Why You Should Use Your Dental Insurance Before It Expires

Dental insurance is a valuable asset—but if you don’t use it, you lose it. Most plans renew annually and unused benefits don’t roll over. At Aleris Salem Dental Center, we want to help our patients in Salem, MA and surrounding communities maximize their coverage and stay on top of their oral health.

Whether you're due for a cleaning or have been postponing treatment, now is the perfect time to schedule your appointment and use your remaining benefits before they reset.

How Dental Insurance Works: Understanding Your Coverage

Dental insurance typically covers:

• Preventive care (cleanings, exams, X-rays)

• Basic procedures (fillings, extractions)

• Major procedures (crowns, bridges, dentures)

Each plan has an annual maximum (usually between $1,000–$2,000). Once the year ends, any unused amount is lost—not carried over.

Key Terms to Know

• Annual Maximum: The max amount your plan will pay in a year.

• Deductible: The amount you pay before insurance kicks in.

• Co-pay/Co-insurance: Your share of the cost after insurance coverage.

Why You’re Losing Money by Delaying Dental Care

If you haven’t used your dental insurance yet this year, you could be missing out on hundreds of dollars in benefits. Here’s how procrastination can cost you:

1. Benefits Don’t Roll Over

Your 2025 dental insurance benefits will likely expire on December 31, 2025. That means:

• You’ll lose any unused coverage.

• You’ll still pay your premiums without using the full value.

2. Delaying Care Can Lead to Bigger Problems

Putting off treatment often turns small issues (like minor decay) into larger, more expensive problems (like root canals or extractions). Early intervention = lower costs.

3. Maximize Preventive Care

Most insurance plans cover two cleanings per year at 100%. If you’ve only had one, you're leaving free dental care on the table.

What Treatments Should I Use My Insurance On?

Not sure where to start? Here are some common services your dental insurance may cover before year-end:

• Professional cleaning & exam

• Fluoride treatment (especially for kids)

• Dental fillings or sealants

• Crowns, bridges, or dentures

• Periodontal therapy for gum disease

When Does Dental Insurance Reset?

Most insurance plans follow a calendar year cycle, resetting on January 1st. That means:

• Your annual maximum starts over.

• Your deductible resets.

• Any pending claims must be processed before year-end.

Now is the time to act—schedule before appointments fill up in December!

Aleris Salem Dental Center Can Help You Maximize Your Benefits

We work with most major dental insurance providers and will help you:

• Check your remaining benefits

• Understand what’s covered

• Create a treatment plan before your coverage resets

Conveniently located in Salem, MA, we serve patients across the North Shore looking to get the most out of their insurance.

FAQs About Dental Insurance

When does dental insurance expire?

Most dental insurance plans expire on December 31st each year, and unused benefits do not roll over.

Can I use my dental insurance for cleanings?

Yes! Most plans cover two preventive cleanings per year at 100%.

What happens if I don’t use my dental insurance benefits?

You lose any unused benefits at the end of the year—your annual maximum resets.

How do I know what my dental insurance covers?

Our front desk team can check your benefits for you, or you can log in to your insurance provider’s website.

Is it too late to schedule an appointment before the year ends?

No, but appointment slots fill quickly. Book today to avoid missing out!

Don’t Let Your Benefits Go to Waste – Book Today!

If you've been waiting to get that crown, filling, or cleaning—don’t delay any longer. Take advantage of your dental insurance before it expires and start the new year with a healthy smile. Call Aleris Salem Dental Center today at (855) 745-0055 Or Book an Appointment Online.