As we approach the end of the year, your calendar is probably filling up fast with holiday parties, family gatherings, and year-end work commitments. With everything going on, it’s tempting to postpone that year-end dental cleaning until after the new year. However, scheduling your December dental appointment before the calendar flips might be one of the smartest health and financial decisions you make this season.

Your Dental Insurance Benefits Are About to Reset

Here’s something many patients don’t realize: most dental insurance benefits don’t roll over into the new year. If you haven’t used your annual maximum, any remaining coverage essentially disappears on December 31st. That’s money you’ve already paid for through your premiums, left sitting on the table.

Most dental insurance plans include benefits like:

  • Two preventive cleanings per year at 100% coverage
  • Annual maximums (typically $1,000-$2,000) that reset on January 1st
  • Deductibles that start over with the new year

By scheduling your year-end dental cleaning now, you’re making the most of the benefits you’ve already paid for. Plus, if Dr. George Skoog discovers any treatment needs during your exam, you might be able to complete the work before your current year’s benefits expire, potentially saving hundreds of dollars out of pocket.

Start the New Year With a Clean Slate (and Clean Teeth)

Beyond the financial advantages, there’s something incredibly satisfying about beginning January with a fresh, healthy smile. Regular professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that your toothbrush can’t reach, helping prevent cavities and gum disease. When you prioritize your December dental appointment, you’re setting yourself up for better oral health throughout the coming year.

Think of it this way: you wouldn’t skip your car’s oil change just because you’re busy, right? Your smile deserves the same level of attention and maintenance.

Catch Problems Early and Avoid Emergency Situations

The holiday season is not the time you want to deal with a dental emergency. Regular cleanings and checkups help catch minor issues before they become painful, expensive problems. That small cavity detected during your year-end dental cleaning can be addressed with a simple filling, but if left untreated until next year, it might require a more extensive—and costly—procedure like a root canal.

December Appointments Are Filling Up Fast

Here’s the reality: you’re not the only person trying to maximize your dental insurance benefits before year-end. Dental offices typically see a surge in appointment requests during November and December as patients rush to use their remaining benefits. The earlier you call to schedule, the more flexibility you’ll have in choosing a convenient appointment time.

Take Action Today

Don’t let another year go by without maximizing your dental benefits. The team at Advocate Dental of Palatine is here to help you end 2025 with a healthy, confident smile. Whether it’s been six months or longer since your last cleaning, now is the perfect time to schedule your December dental appointment.

Call us today at (847) 359-8732 to book your year-end dental cleaning. Our friendly staff can verify your dental insurance benefits and help you understand exactly what coverage you have remaining for this year. Let’s work together to ensure you’re starting the new year with optimal oral health—and without leaving any of your hard-earned benefits unused.