As December approaches, your to-do list is probably overflowing with holiday preparations, gift shopping, and year-end work deadlines. With everything going on, it’s tempting to push that dental cleaning to next year. However, scheduling a year-end dental cleaning before the calendar flips should actually be at the top of your priority list—and here’s why.
Your Dental Insurance Benefits Are About to Reset
Most dental insurance plans operate on a calendar year, which means your benefits reset on January 1st. If you haven’t used your annual maximum or met your deductible, you could be leaving money on the table. Think of it this way: you’ve been paying premiums all year long, so why not take full advantage of what you’ve already paid for?
Here’s what typically resets at year-end:
- Annual maximums: Most plans cover up to a certain amount per year (often $1,000–$2,000)
- Deductibles: Any progress you’ve made toward meeting your deductible starts over
- Preventive care benefits: Most plans cover two cleanings per year at 100%
When you schedule a December dental appointment, you’re essentially maximizing the investment you’ve already made in your dental insurance. Plus, if you need additional work beyond a cleaning, you might be able to split treatment between two benefit years, helping you save even more.
Start the New Year With a Clean Slate (and Clean Teeth)
There’s something refreshing about beginning a new year with your health in order. A year-end dental cleaning doesn’t just polish your smile—it gives you peace of mind knowing you’re starting fresh. Dr. Daniel Alleman and our team at Alleman Family Dental can identify potential issues early, preventing them from becoming painful or expensive problems down the road.
Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing can’t tackle. This professional care helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues that could derail your New Year’s plans.
Holiday Season Smile Confidence
Let’s be honest—December is full of photos. Holiday parties, family gatherings, and festive celebrations mean your smile will be front and center. A professional cleaning will have your teeth looking their brightest just in time for all those holiday moments you’ll want to capture and remember.
Appointments Fill Up Quickly
You’re not the only one who realizes the value of maximizing dental insurance benefits before year-end. December is one of our busiest months as patients rush to use their remaining benefits. The earlier you call to schedule, the better your chances of getting a convenient time slot that works with your holiday schedule.
Prevention Is Always Less Expensive Than Treatment
Skipping your routine cleaning might seem like you’re saving time, but it could cost you much more in the long run. Small issues that could be caught during a December dental appointment might develop into bigger, more expensive problems by the time you finally make it in next year—and remember, you’ll be starting with a fresh deductible.
Ready to Schedule Your Year-End Cleaning?
Don’t let your dental insurance benefits expire unused. The team at Alleman Family Dental in Boulder, CO, is here to help you end 2025 with a healthy, confident smile. Give us a call at 303-499-7133 to schedule your year-end dental cleaning today. We’ll work with you to find an appointment time that fits your busy holiday schedule, and we’ll help you understand exactly what benefits you have remaining.
Your future self—and your smile—will thank you for making your oral health a priority before the year ends!
