As the end of the year approaches, many patients are surprised to learn that they still have unused dental insurance benefits. In most plans, those dollars do not roll over into the new year. If you do not use them, you lose them.

At Robinson & Malone Dentistry in Lubbock and Snyder, our goal is to help you protect your oral health and your wallet by making smart use of your remaining benefits before December 31.

How Typical Dental Insurance Benefits Work

Every plan is different, but many dental insurance policies include:

• An annual maximum
  This is the total amount your plan may pay for covered dental treatment in a calendar year.
  
• Preventive care coverage
  Many plans cover routine cleanings, exams, and X rays at a higher percentage because prevention keeps problems small and costs lower over time.
  
• Coverage for restorative care
  Fillings, crowns, root canals, and other necessary treatments are often covered at a percentage, which means using your benefits can significantly reduce your out of pocket cost.
  

Once the plan year resets, any unused portion of your annual maximum is typically gone. The company does not send you a refund for unused benefits, so the only way to get value from your premiums is to schedule needed care.

(Be sure to review your specific plan documents or contact your insurance provider for details about your coverage.) Robinson & Malone Dentistry

Why Year End Is A Smart Time To Schedule Dental Treatment

There are a few reasons late fall and early winter are ideal times to get caught up on dental care:

1. You may still have covered preventive visits available
   If it has been more than six months since your last cleaning and exam, there is a good chance you still have a covered preventive visit remaining.
   
2. You can complete treatment before issues worsen
   Small cavities and early gum problems rarely stay small. Taking care of recommended treatment now can help you avoid more complex and costly procedures later.
   
3. You are already paying for coverage
   If you pay monthly premiums, you are investing in dental care whether you use it or not. Using your benefits for recommended treatment helps you get real value from that investment.
   
4. You can sometimes use two benefit years for larger treatment plans
   For patients who need more extensive care, beginning treatment near the end of the year and completing it at the beginning of the next year may allow you to take advantage of two annual maximums. Our team can help you explore whether this applies to your situation based on your plan.
   

Do Not Forget About FSAs and HSAs

If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) through your employer, the funds must often be used within the plan year, or they may expire. Dental treatment that preserves or restores your oral health is frequently an eligible expense. Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) are handled differently and may roll over, but they can also be a helpful way to pay for care using pre-tax dollars.

For guidance on how your FSA or HSA works, it is best to check with your benefits administrator or employer.

Care Today Can Support Whole Body Health

Robinson & Malone Dentistry focuses on comprehensive health dentistry, recognizing the connection between oral health and overall wellness. Issues like gum disease and chronic mouth infections can impact more than just your smile. Addressing these concerns with the help of your insurance benefits can be a meaningful investment in both your long-term health and overall well-being. Robinson & Malone Dentistry

How Our Team Helps You Maximize Your Benefits

Insurance can feel confusing. Our administrative team works with dental plans every day and will:

• Collect your insurance information and verify basic benefits
  
• Provide an estimated out-of-pocket portion for the recommended treatment
  
• File claims on your behalf as a courtesy
  

Your insurance company ultimately determines what they will pay, so all estimates are based on the information they provide and are not a guarantee of payment. Robinson & Malone Dentistry

If cost is a concern, we can also discuss payment options, including third party financing such as Cherry Financing or CareCredit for treatment that is not fully covered by insurance. Robinson & Malone Dentistry

Do You Have Unused Benefits In 2025?

You may benefit from a year end appointment if:

• You have not had two preventive visits this year
  
• You were previously told you needed a filling, crown, or other treatment but postponed it
  
• You are experiencing sensitivity, pain, or changes in your gums
  
• You have cosmetic or restorative concerns you have been putting off and want to know what your plan may contribute toward treatment
  

A quick call to our office can help you find out whether you have remaining benefits and how to use them before they expire.

Schedule Your Year End Visit In Lubbock or Snyder

Appointment times near the end of the year fill quickly as more patients remember their remaining benefits. If you would like to make the most of your 2025 dental insurance:

• Call our Lubbock office at 806-794-1131
  
• Or contact our Snyder office at 325-515-5064

The team at Robinson & Malone Dentistry is here to help you finish the year with a healthier smile and get the full benefit of the coverage you work hard to maintain.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Insurance And Year End Benefits

1. What does “use it or lose it” mean for dental insurance?
   Most dental plans set a yearly maximum they will pay for covered services within a calendar year. If you do not use that amount before the year resets, the unused portion does not roll over and is essentially lost. There is usually no refund for unused benefits.
2. Can I schedule treatment in December and have it count for this year?
   In most plans, benefits apply on the date treatment is completed. If you want procedures to apply to the current year, it is best to schedule early enough that your dentist has time to complete the work before December 31. Always confirm timing details with our team and your insurance provider.
3. Are cleanings and exams always covered?
   Many plans cover preventive services at a higher percentage, but coverage can vary. Some policies limit the number of cleanings per year or have waiting periods. Our team can help you review the information provided by your plan so you know what to expect.
4. Can I use my FSA to pay for dental treatment?
   Often, yes. FSAs are commonly used for medically necessary dental services such as exams, cleanings, fillings, crowns, and periodontal treatment. Cosmetic only procedures may not be covered. Check with your FSA plan administrator to confirm which services are eligible.
5. What if my insurance does not cover everything I need?
   Our dentists will always recommend treatment based on your health needs, not just insurance coverage. We will explain your options, estimate your portion, and review payment choices, including third party financing, so you can choose the plan that fits your budget.
6. How do I find out how much of my annual maximum I have left?
   You can call the customer service number on your insurance card, log in to your insurance company’s online portal, or contact our office. With your permission, our team can request benefit information from your insurer and help you understand how much coverage may still be available.

If you are unsure where to start, reach out to Robinson & Malone Dentistry in Lubbock and Snyder. We will be happy to review your options and schedule a visit so you can use your 2025 dental benefits before you lose them.