Many are rushing to maximize their dental benefits at the end of the year. Waiting till the last minute is sure to result in missed opportunities. The “Use-It-Lose-It” rule can leave you with unused dental benefits that expire before you get a chance to use them.

Several cases involve taking advantage of benefits early in the year for routine dental care, such as cleanings and checkups. This aids in the prevention of bigger problems later on. Beat the stress and costs: plan now.

What is the “Use-It-Lose-It” Rule?

“Use-It-Lose-It” means that dental benefits reset at the end of the year. All unused benefits do not carry over to the next year; thus, if you are beyond the deadline, you lose them.

It is important not to forget basic treatments such as routine cleanings, fillings, and exams. When these treatments are not used in due time, they can be more costly if neglected.

The Importance of Early Utilization

Using your benefits early for preventive care, such as cleanings, can help prevent future problems or catch them when they are easier to treat. By treating issues like cavities or gum disease, one avoids expensive procedures later on in life.

Scheduling appointments early guarantees that you can get an appointment time that suits your schedule. You will also avoid last-minute booking stress and minimize the chances of missing out on essential care.

Common Treatments to Use Your Benefits On

More importantly, routine cleanings and checkups help prevent bigger issues. By catching cavities early, you can avoid costly treatments such as root canals or crowns.

Other covered preventive services include fluoride treatments, sealants, and screenings for oral cancer or gum disease. These treatments are all covered under your benefits and contribute to your long-term oral health.

Key Steps to Ensure You Don’t Lose Your Benefits

First of all, it’s a good idea to book appointments in advance. Check your benefits plan to know what is covered and what has been used this year.

Don’t wait until December when the appointments are scarce and rushed. Being proactive in the utilization of your benefits means you will not lose them, and that you’ll be able to maintain good oral health.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Procrastinating until the last minute is one surefire way to miss out on opportunities. Many patients misunderstand their coverage and don’t use accrued benefits.

Smaller, minor issues, such as early-stage cavities, ignored today, will set someone up for larger, more extensive, and more expensive problems later on. Do not let these mistakes cost you valuable benefits or, worse, jeopardize your dental health.

Using your “Use-It-Lose-It” benefits early helps you avoid future costly problems. Set up your routine visits now and maximize your benefits to protect that smile.

Don’t wait until it’s too late, so book an appointment today before those benefits expire. Keep your dental health on track and don’t let what rightfully belongs to you slip away.