As the calendar winds down, it’s easy to let certain appointments slide—especially if you’ve been feeling fine all year. But if you haven’t scheduled your year-end dental cleaning yet, now is the perfect time to pick up the phone. At Barrington Grove Dental, we see a rush of patients in December, and there’s a very good reason why: they’re maximizing their dental insurance benefits before they disappear on January 1st.

Use It or Lose It: Understanding Your Dental Insurance Benefits

Most dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year, which means your benefits reset every January. If you haven’t used your full annual maximum, that money essentially vanishes. Here’s what typically gets left on the table:

  • Annual Maximum Benefits: Many plans provide between $1,000 and $2,000 per year in coverage. If you haven’t reached this limit, you’re missing out on benefits you’ve already paid for through your premiums.
  • Deductibles: If you’ve already met your deductible for the year, any remaining treatments will cost you less out-of-pocket in December than they would in January when your deductible resets.
  • Preventive Care Coverage: Most insurance plans cover preventive services, like cleanings and exams, at 100%. These visits don’t typically count toward your annual maximum, making them essentially free.

Dr. Robert Passehl often reminds patients that scheduling a December dental appointment isn’t just smart financially—it’s an investment in your long-term oral health.

Starting the New Year With a Healthy Smile

Beyond the financial advantages, getting your year-end dental cleaning completed before the holidays offers health benefits that extend well into the new year. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing can’t reach, helping to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues.

When you start January with a clean slate (literally!), you’re setting yourself up for success. You’ll have fresh insights into your oral health status, and if Dr. Passehl identifies any issues during your exam, you can address them early in the new year when your insurance benefits have refreshed.

Catching Problems Before They Become Expensive

Regular dental cleanings aren’t just about keeping your teeth sparkly. They’re your first line of defense against more serious dental problems. During your appointment, we can identify early signs of issues like:

  • Cavities that need fillings
  • Gum disease requiring treatment
  • Worn enamel or teeth grinding damage
  • Early signs of oral cancer

Catching these problems early means simpler, less expensive treatments. It’s far better to address a small cavity now than to need a root canal next year.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

December is one of our busiest months at Barrington Grove Dental, and appointment availability fills up quickly as patients rush to use their remaining benefits. Waiting until the last week of December might mean you can’t get in before your insurance resets.

If it’s been more than six months since your last cleaning, or if you have remaining dental insurance benefits for the year, we encourage you to call us at (847) 382-0818. Our team will work with you to schedule your December dental appointment at a time that fits your busy holiday schedule.

Your oral health deserves attention all year long, but there’s no better time than right now to maximize what you’ve already paid for and ensure you’re starting 2026 with a healthy, confident smile.